Ahead of the 2026 Telstra AFL Draft, AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan has released profiles on the top prospects.

Richmond holds picks two, five, 44 and 99 in the upcoming draft, with the Club also likely to receive a beginning of second round compensation pick, given new AFL rules introduced for the first time in 2026.

Below are Sheehan's profiles on the top defenders, rucks, tall forwards and smalls in the draft pool, with more profiles to be released next week. All players profiled attended the 2026 Telstra AFL Draft Combine or 2026 Telstra AFL State Draft Combine in October.

Smalls

Zac Antonellos
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: Park Orchards
Date of Birth: 04/04/2008
Height: 181cm
Profile: A midfielder or high half forward, Antonellos is extremely creative and uses his clean hands and vision to set up his teammates and produce scoring opportunities for his team. Overcome an ankle injury last year to have an extremely productive underage season, which included kicking three goals in the Eastern Ranges’ Talent League Grand Final win. The performance set him up for a strong 2026, and this year he averaged 16.1 disposals in 10 games. He forced his way into the Victoria Metro team for its final game at the Marsh AFL National Championships, where he performed well with 14 disposals (50% contested) in the big win over Victoria Country. His 32 disposals in the Ranges’ Round 20 win over the Cannons was an indication of his upper ceiling. Tested soundly at the Draft Combine, with his 6:39 for the 2km time trial a strong and competitive performance.

Jordan Knapp
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: North Ringwood
Date of Birth: 05/01/2008
Height: 180cm
Profile: A clean and composed midfielder, Knapp was a star for the Eastern Ranges in their Talent League premiership-winning campaign last season. He continued with that form this year, averaging 28 disposals (10 contested) across 14 games as captain to win the club's best and fairest award. Knapp also showcased his work rate and excellent ball-winning ability both on the wing and in run-with roles for Victoria Metro. He averaged 23.6 disposals (10 contested) across the National Championships and was rewarded with All Australian honours. His leadership and ability to cover the ground well and make great decisions with the ball stood out all year, with Talent League Team of the Year honours further recognition of his ongoing progression. Showed outstanding athleticism at the Draft Combine with top-ten finishes in the agility test (7.99 seconds), 20m sprint (2.90 seconds) and 2km time trial (6:14).

Toby Krasna
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: Preston Bullants
Date of Birth: 28/02/2008
Height: 182cm
Profile: A smooth-moving First Nations player who covers the ground very well, Krasna is a clean and composed midfielder who plays both on the inside and outside. He was a shining light for the Northern Knights across the Talent League season, averaging 21.2 disposals at 65 percent efficiency and kicked seven goals in 12 matches. Krasna was amongst the Knights’ best players during the finals and stepped up to really impress for Victoria Metro during the National Championships, where her showed slick hands and sharp vision. Averaged 19 disposals at 81 percent efficiency in three National Championships appearances and featured in the title-winning team’s best players against Western Australia and the Allies. Showcased his assets in the agility test (8.10 seconds) and 2km time trial (6:10) at the Draft Combine, which were both top-ten finishes to round off an excellent Draft year.

Hugh McCallum
State: Tasmania
State League Club: Tasmania Devils
Community Club: Clarence
Date of Birth: 10/08/2008
Height: 181cm
Profile: An athletic wing or high half forward who is courageous and committed, McCullum first came onto the radar at the Marsh AFL National Development Championships in 2024 before showing great potential as a bottom-aged player in the Talent League in 2025. McCallum was the Devils’ best player across the side’s first seven Talent League games this year, averaging 22.9 disposals at 68 percent efficiency and kicking nine goals, including four against the Oakleigh Chargers. However, an ACL injury unfortunately ruined his season on the verge of the National Championships. Now well into his recovery, his body of work had been impressive over several seasons and he was announced as one of Tasmania’s first eight AFL signings in September, meaning he wasn’t required to attend the Draft Combine. Older brother Tom was drafted to Port Adelaide in 2022.

Caylen Murray
State: Queensland
State League Club: Brisbane Lions Academy
Community Club: Maroochydore
Date of Birth: 03/01/2008
Height: 179cm
Profile: Defender and midfielder with line-breaking speed, which he uses consistently to break open the play. Murray can find the ball inside or outside the contest and has a clever step to change lanes when in traffic. An All Australian at under-16 level in 2024, he’s continued to develop impressively with the Brisbane Lions Academy over the past two years. Earned senior opportunities with the Lions in the VFL early this year before being ultra-impressive for the Allies at the National Championships, averaging 24 disposals at 78 percent, and featuring in the best players in every match to win the team’s MVP award and All Australian honours. A member of both the AFL’s Indigenous Academy and the Marsh AFL National Academy, Murray is eligible to the three-time AFL reigning premiers as a member of the Lions Academy. Completed an outstanding year with a strong Draft Combine performance, which included finishing fourth in the 2km time trial with a time of 6:06.

Sonny Smiler
State: Northern Territory
State League Club: Northern Territory Academy
Community Club: Wanderers
Date of Birth: 20/10/2008
Height: 177cm
Profile: A smooth-moving left footed wing or forward, Smiler covers the ground well and uses his speed to gain separation from opponents and his neat disposals to set up his team going forward. Won best on the ground honours in the Northern Territory’s underage All-Star game in January, kicking five goals from 20 disposals in a standout performance. In his four matches for the Northern Territory Academy in the Talent League this year, Smiler averaged 14.5 disposals, 4.5 tackles and a goal playing in midfield and forward roles. Earning selection for the Allies where he played all four matches at the National Championships and contributed to their dramatic win over Western Australia by kicking two important goals. Represented the Australia U18 team in their challenge match against North Melbourne’s VFL team in April, which added to his experiences and development this season. A member of the AFL’s Indigenous Academy, Smiler comes from the small community of Kalkarindji, located 780 km south of Darwin, with a population of 400 residents. Showed his athletic attributes at the Draft Combine, finishing second in the 20m sprint (2.87 seconds) and top-ten in running vertical jump (86cm).

Andrio Sousa
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Community Club: Edithvale Aspendale
Date of Birth: 11/08/2008
Height: 183cm
Profile: A winger who holds his width well and works hard up and down the ground, Sousa can hit the scoreboard when he gets forward. After having a dominant 25-disposal game for the Dandenong Stingrays in the opening round of the Talent League season, he suffered an elbow fracture which sidelined him for six weeks. Returned strongly to be a consistent performer for the Stingrays, averaging 18.5 disposals in 12 matches. Also showed his clean hands and smarts across four matches for Victoria Country at the National Championships, averaging 15 disposals at 70 percent efficiency, and was amongst the best players against Western Australia. Finished his season impressively with the Stingrays, including having 18 disposals and kicking two goals in their Grand Final loss to the Gippsland Power. Was impressive during Draft Combine testing, producing top-10 performances in the agility test (8.09 seconds), running vertical jump (89cm) and 20m sprint (2.90 seconds).

Archie Spencer
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: Woori Yallock
Date of Birth: 24/09/2008
Height: 182cm
Profile: A powerful defender and midfielder with good speed and neat disposal, Spencer was outstanding in defence for Victoria Metro in its opening National Championships match against Western Australia, closing down dangerous small forwards and providing great rebound. Captained the team in the final of the Champs, having been a strong leader throughout. Averaged 15.2 disposals at 82 percent efficiency and was rarely beaten one-on-one, while also creative in setting up play from the back half to be rewarded with All Australian selections. Plays with a real competitive edge and physical presence, which he maintained during the Talent League season for the Eastern Ranges, averaging 22.5 disposals (nine contested) at 78 percent efficiency in 15 matches. Playing predominantly in the midfield for the Ranges and was selected in the Talent League Team of the Year, having last year been a member of the club’s premiership team. His effort of 7.91 seconds on the agility ranked fourth overall at the national Draft Combine.

Leo Steed
State: Western Australia
State League Club: Swan Districts
Community Club: Dalyellup Dockers
Date of Birth: 07/03/2008
Height: 176cm
Profile: A small midfielder who hunts the footy and is a one-touch player, Steed had an outstanding year which included All Australian selection at under-18 level. Also had an impact at senior level with Swan Districts, where he played 12 matches and averaged 14.3 disposals as a small forward. In the U18 National Championships, he consistently drove Western Australia forward with precise use after winning the contested ball, averaging 23.5 disposals (10.2 contested), 4.5 clearances and four tackles. Was outstanding in the impressive win over South Australia in a best on ground performance, before also starring against Victoria Metro on his way to being runner up to teammate Heath Mellody for the Larke Medal. A former state level underaged basketballer, he also won All Australian selection at under-16 level in 2024, beginning an impressive three-year preparation for an AFL career. His Draft Combine performances were impressive, particularly in the 2km time trial (6:09) and agility test (8.07 seconds), which were both ranked in the top-10 overall.

Sam Tassone
State: South Australia
State League Club: North Adelaide
Community Club: Irymple
Date of Birth: 12/02/2008
Height: 181cm
Profile: Rebounding defender who takes the game on, Tassone is an excellent decision maker and a composed distributor by hand and foot. He did this to great effect at both club and state level this year to present himself as an AFL prospect. At club level he was a prolific ball winner for North Adelaide, averaging 28.3 disposals at 73 percent efficiency in seven under-18 level matches. He took that form into the National Championships, where he averaged 20.8 disposals at 77 percent efficiency for South Australia and was among their best against both Western Australia and Victoria Country. Showed his elite endurance during the 2km time trial at the Draft Combine, recording a time of 6:13.

Noah Williams
State: Victoria Country
Talent League Club: Geelong Falcons
Community Club: St Joseph’s
Date of Birth: 22/01/2008
Height: 177cm
Profile: A tough and classy left-footed midfielder and half back, Williams uses his hardness in the contest to win the ball and his elite decision making to create for his team. After winning the best player medal for Team Boak in last year’s National Futures match on AFL Grand Final Day, he started the 2026 season in equally impressive fashion again to claim the medal as the Australia U18 team’s best player against North Melbourne’s VFL team. Despite being challenged by several injuries throughout the season, he was a consistent performer for Victoria Country at the National Championships, averaging 15.5 disposals at 71 percent efficiency, with a team-high 5.8 tackles. Was restricted to just four Talent League matches for the Geelong Falcons due to injury and Geelong Grammar playing commitments but maintained a high level of productivity in averaging 21 disposals at 70 percent efficiency to complete a strong body of work over the past 12 months. Did not test at the Draft Combine while recovering from a hip/groin injury.

Tanner Armstrong
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Murray Bushrangers
Community Club: Shepparton United
Date of Birth: 27/02/2008
Height: 176cm
Profile: A small midfielder or defender, Armstrong is equally effective finding the ball in either role. Uses his ability to read the play to link up, along with being a fierce competitor to win contested possessions. An All Australian at under-16 level in 2024, this season he continued to rack up the footy at will. He averaged 35.5 disposals, eight clearances and six tackles in four Talent League matches for the Murray Bushrangers, while sharing his season with commitments playing for Scotch College. He also performed strongly in two matches for the Australia U18 team against VFL opponents in April, averaging 24.5 disposals, 4.5 clearances and 5.5 tackles to be one of Australia’s better players. Played predominantly as a small defender for Victoria Country during this year’s National Championships, averaging 24 disposals and being amongst their best in the win over the Allies. A First Nations talent, Armstrong is a member of Richmond’s Next Generation Academy, giving the Tigers priority access to him later. Demonstrated his fast feet with his impressive performance in the agility test at the state Draft Combine, recording a time of 7.99 seconds.

Harper Banfield
State: Western Australia
State League Club: Claremont
Community Club: Cottesloe
Date of Birth: 18/12/2008
Height: 181cm
Profile: A midfielder with a genuine competitive streak, Banfield emerged in his bottom-age year in 2025 to be an important cog in Claremont’s premiership-winning under-18 side. Was a model of consistency at club and representative levels this year, averaging 23 disposals at 70 percent efficiency, with 3.5 clearances and 6 tackles in four games for Western Australia at the National Championships, being among their best against South Australia, Victoria Country and the Allies. Debuted at senior WAFL level with the Eagles, averaging 18.5 disposals in two matches. His brother Charlie was drafted to St Kilda last year at pick 41 and debuted for the Saints this year. Their father Drew played 265 games for the West Coast Eagles, winning a best and fairest in 1996 and featuring in premiership sides in 1994 and 2006, making Harper eligible for the Eagles as a father-son selection. Showed not just his elite endurance but his willingness to compete by winning the 2km time trial in a time of 6:11 at the state Draft Combine in Western Australia.

Charlie Gray
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Geelong Falcons
Community Club: St Joseph’s
Date of Birth: 12/05/2008
Height: 183cm
Profile: A small forward and midfielder who is lightly framed and with massive upside, Gray excelled late in the season when given more time in the midfield. Peaked with 27 disposals at 78 percent efficiency in the Geelong Falcons’ final Talent League game against the GWV Rebels. Earlier in the season he kicked four goals against the Murray Bushrangers when playing as a small forward and overall kicked 11 goals from his average of 13.3 disposals and 3.3 tackles in 16 games for the Falcons. Tested soundly at the state Draft Combine, with his agility test (8.12 seconds) and 20m (3.05) both good indicators of his athleticism.

Jacob McNicol
State: South Australia
State League Club: Glenelg
Community Club: Immanuel College
Date of Birth: 28/06/2008
Height: 178cm
Profile: A left-footed midfielder with a real appetite for the contest, McNicol excelled with his ball-winning ability at under-18 level for Glenelg this year. He averaged 28 disposals and 5.5 clearances at 65 percent efficiency, as well as kicking 23 goals in 11 matches for the premiership-winning team. Topped off his season by winning the Allan Stewart Medal as best on ground in the Grand Final after gathering 34 disposals and kicking two goals. Clever, tough and possessing sound fundamental skills, McNicol also impressed with his footy IQ and consistent ball-winning for South Australia during the National Championships, averaging 22 disposals at 71 percent efficiency across four matches. His sharp speed (2.91 seconds for the 20m sprint) and slick agility (7.95 seconds) were both impressive features during testing at the state Draft Combine in South Australia, capping off an extremely productive season.

Matthew Owen
State: Queensland
State League Club: Brisbane Lions Academy
Community Club: Redland-Victoria Point
Date of Birth: 01/03/2008
Height: 177cm
Profile: A midfielder with high footy IQ, Owen reads the game beautifully while also displaying excellent fundamentals with clean hands below his knees and neat ball use. He is generally composed with ball in hand and makes good decisions. These traits were on show during the National Development Championships in 2024 when Owen averaged 32 disposals (12 contested) and 4.7 clearances to win the Brisbane Lions Academy MVP award, as well as the Allan McLean Medal as the best and fairest player in Division 2 to earn All Australian honours. After a promising bottom-aged year, Owen started 2026 in great touch by averaging 23.5 disposals (8.7 contested) and three clearances from his first seven matches in the Talent League for the Lions Academy, playing mostly as an inside midfielder. Won selection with the Allies for its opening match against Victoria Country then after making a promising start, including kicking a long goal on the run, he injured his shoulder which kept him out for the remainder of the year. Was unable to test at the Draft Combine while still recovering from surgery.

Brodie Wilson
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: Upper Ferntree Gully
Date of Birth: 03/02/2008
Height: 178cm
Profile: A winger who can also play as a small forward, Wilson is lightly-framed but extremely clever in reading the game use the ball smartly by hand and foot. Dangerous around goals, he kicked 18 majors for the year, including one in the Eastern Ranges’ thrilling Wildcard Round victory over the Northern Knights when he was among the Ranges best with 20 disposals and six marks. He averaged 12.1 disposals and 3.3 tackles in 17 matches this year for the Ranges. His slick change of direction was on display with a solid performance in the agility run (8.22 seconds) at the state Draft Combine.

Rucks and tall forwards

Dougie Cochrane
State: South Australia
State League Club: Central District
Community Club: Port Districts
Date of Birth: 02/05/2008
Height: 195cm
Profile: A tall and athletic forward or defender, Cochrane announced himself when he dominated the under-16 national Championships in 2024, averaging 24 disposals (72 per cent efficiency), 6.7 marks and 4.3 tackles. Playing as a defender, he impressed with his ability to intercept mark before turning defence into attack with precision kicking and won the Division 1 best and fairest award, All Australian honours and South Australia’s MVP award. Cochrane missed the National Championships as a bottom-ager last year due to injury but was promoted from under-18s to the SANFL seniors late in the year, kicking four-goals in an eye-catching debut for Central District in August. Unfortunately, injury struck again this year, with knee tendonitis sidelining the AFL National Academy member for the much of the season before returning to play four matches late in the year, averaging 17.8 disposals, which included having 30 disposals against West Adelaide at SANFL senior level. The son of former North Melbourne and Port Adelaide tagger Stuart Cochrane, he does not qualify for either club under father-son rules but is tied to the Power as a member of the club’s Next Generation Academy due to his Indigenous heritage. Was unable to test at the Draft Combine due to ongoing rehabilitation on his knee injury.

Sam Gayfer
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: Banyule
Date of Birth: 21/05/2008
Height: 194cm
Profile: An athletic tall forward, Gayfer is known for his vice-like grip overhead, strong athletic traits and high natural leap. He had an outstanding year for the Northern Knights, averaging 12.4 disposals and 4.4 marks, while kicking 30 goals from 13 matches to be rewarded with selection in the Talent League Team of the Year. Gayfer also kicked 10 goals and averaged 11 disposals and 4.2 marks for Victoria Metro in four matches at the National Championships, including kicking four goals against South Australia in a dominant display for the title-winning team. Broke the AFL Draft Combine record for the running vertical jump in October, with his 114cm leap the highest recorded in more than 30 years of testing. Also ranked first in the standing vertical jump with his 88cm leap confirming what we see in marking contests. Is the nephew of Collingwood 1990 premiership player Mick Gayfer.

Ethan Herbert
State: South Australia
State League Club: North Adelaide
Community Club: Walkerville
Date of Birth: 01/11/2008
Height: 201cm
Profile: An athletic and aggressive ruck and tall forward, Herbert has been on the radar after he starred at the under-16 National Championships in 2024 where he won All Australian honours. He thrives in the contest, excels in winning hit-outs to the advantage of his midfielders, while his follow-up work and clean hands below his knees are also standout features. This year he was dominant in seven matches for North Adelaide’s under-18 team, averaging 22 disposals, 4.3 marks, 6.6 clearances and 22 hit-outs. Got some experience at reserves level, playing two matches and again found plenty of the ball. Played predominately forward with a support role in the ruck in the National Championships for South Australia before imposing himself in the ruck in the thrilling one-point win over Victoria Country, recording 20 disposals, six marks and 14 hit-outs to be among his team’s best players. Finished in the top-10 in the running vertical jump with a leap of 91cm at the Draft Combine.

Lewis Houndsome
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: Yarrambat
Date of Birth: 29/05/2008
Height: 198cm
Profile: A developing tall forward and ruck, Houndsome has shown distinct promise with his mobility, natural leap and strong hands over the past two years. Endured a setback when he suffered a significant rib and lung injury in his second match representing the Australia U18 team in April and took some time to recover completely and return to his best. Still showed some of his undoubted potential playing for Victoria Metro in four National Championships matches, averaging 10.5 disposals and 8.5 hit-outs in a tall forward/ruck support role. Really hit his straps in the final month of the season for the Northern Knights when he returned to crashing packs and taking contested marks in a glimpse of his overall talent and potential. His overall fundamentals are good and he possesses a sound kicking technique. Finished up playing 11 Talent League games with the Knights, averaging 12 disposals, 3.2 marks and 19.5 hit-outs. Had a top-10 finish in the standing vertical jump at the Draft Combine with a 76cm leap.

Koby LeCras
State: Western Australia
State League Club: West Perth
Community Club: Cervantes
Date of Birth: 26/04/2008
Height: 192cm
Profile: A left-footed forward, LeCras showed real class with his aerial ability and goal sense while playing for Western Australia at the under-16 National Championships in 2024, earning selection in the All Australian team. Hailing from an elite basketball background, he is a high-impact player with plenty of upside. He started this season on fire, which included being amongst the Australia U18 team’s best against Richmond’s VFL side with 18 disposals, seven marks and three goals in April. Later in the month he went on to make his senior debut for West Perth in Round 4 of the WAFL season before suffering a season-ending ACL injury and is now on the road to a full recovery. He is the son of former North Melbourne and West Perth player Brett LeCras, while his uncle Mark LeCras was a star of the game and was a premiership player for the West Coast Eagles in 2018. Impressed at the Draft Combine in the 2km time trial, recording a time of 6:24 to give a clear indication he is on track with his recovery from injury.

Wil Malady
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Bairnsdale
Date of Birth: 12/10/2008
Height: 190cm
Profile: A medium-sized forward, Malady showed some exciting talent during the under-16 National Championships in 2024, with his ability to read the ball coming in and his one-touch hands real features of his game. A high-impact player, he took seven contested marks at the tournament (ranked No.1) and kicked six goals for Vic Country to be rewarded with All Australian honours. He continued to put his potential on display in his bottom-age campaign in 2025, including kicking five goals for Team Boak in the National Futures match at the MCG last September, showcasing his potential on the biggest stage. He opened this season in great form with a six-goal haul for the Gippsland Power in a dominant Round 1 performance against the Murray Bushrangers. A member of the AFL National Academy, Malady mixed his football between two games with the Australia U18s team, Gippsland Power and Victoria Country, showcasing his weapons with his exciting ability in the air and precise goal kicking. Averaged 11 disposals and 4.3 marks while kicking 27 goals from 13 games, as well as fulfilling his playing commitments with Caulfield Grammar. Topped off his year with a game-breaking second half in Gippsland Power’s Talent League Grand Final win over the Dandenong Stingrays, booting five goals in the second half to confirm his ability to influence outcomes in big games. Was outstanding during testing at the Draft Combine, ranked second for agility (7.83 seconds) and third on the 20m sprint (2.90 seconds).

Seb Marsic
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Hawthorn Citizens
Date of Birth: 30/08/2008
Height: 196cm
Profile: A tall forward who has both strong hands on the lead and in contested situations, Marsic only gave a thin slice of his talent early in the season before injuring his ankle. His standout performance was in the Oakleigh Chargers’ Round 2 win over the Sandringham Dragons, where he booted seven goals from six marks and 15 disposals. Tackles aggressively and has a real physical presence up forward. Finished with just four matches for the season, with a return of 11 goals, which was enough for AFL clubs to have a closer look at both his progression from his rehab program and timeline on returning to full training during the Draft Combine.

Jackson O’Brien
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: GWV Rebels
Community Club: Lake Wendouree
Date of Birth: 05/06/2008
Height: 207cm
Profile: Developing ruck prospect who progressed in leaps and bounds this year to emerge as Victoria Country’s number one ruck. O’Brien is mobile and competitive, with the size and athleticism to match it around stoppages. Has exceptional ruck craft, with soft hands to direct the ball with his tap work. He played all four games for Victoria Country at the National Championships, averaging nine disposals at 75% efficiency, along with with 3.7 marks and 17.5 hit-outs. Has always played football but was more focused on basketball until this season, when he was dominant in the Talent League with the GWV Rebels, averaging 27.4 hit-outs and 3.1 marks from 14 matches. His competitiveness and excellent endurance for a player of his size was apparent at the Draft Combine, running an impressive time of 6:45 in the 2km time trial.

Jack Pickett
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Geelong Falcons
Community Club: Torquay
Date of Birth: 06/03/2008
Height: 193cm
Profile: A mobile and strong-marking tall forward with a vice-like grip, Pickett was a weapon inside-50 for the Geelong Falcons as a bottom-age player in 2025. He kicked 31 goals from eight matches in the Talent League, including a haul of seven majors against the Western Jets and two other bags of five goals. He recorded goal kicking accuracy of 77.5 per cent for the season, with sharp shooting being a real feature of his game. Pickett also had a taste of National Championships action for Victoria Country and kicked three goals from two matches, before capping a consistent year with two goals for Team Docherty in the National Futures match in September. He kicked two goals in his first game for the Geelong Falcons this year, before devastatingly rupturing his ACL at training which sidelined him for the rest of the 2026 campaign. Pickett was a member of the AFL National Academy but was sidelined for both its matches in April due to the earlier injury. Although his rehab is progressing very well, he was unable to test at the Draft Combine. Recruiters will rely on his impressive body of work in his 16th and 17th years to evaluate his potential.

Jack Slattery
State: South Australia
State League Club: Woodville-West Torrens
Community Club: South Clare
Date of Birth: 27/09/2007
Height: 192cm
Profile: A tall forward who was the surprise packet of this year’s National Championships, Slattery kicked 16 goals across four matches to win South Australia’s MVP, which included bags of six against the Allies and five against Victoria Metro in a beaten team. An approved overaged player who turned 19 in late September, he’s a late developer who hadn’t been exposed to representative football previously. Excelled with his marking and goal sense, averaging 11.2 disposals, 4.2 marks and four goals across the Championships to be rewarded with selection in the All Australian team. At club level he played nine reserves matches for Woodville-West Torrens, as well as debuting at senior level. His season was cut short when he fractured his hip after crashing into the post in his third senior game. Couldn’t test at the Draft Combine due to that hip injury.

Harvey Spawton-Guy
State: Western Australia
State League Club: West Perth
Community Club: Ocean Ridge
Date of Birth: 08/09/2008
Height: 195cm
Profile: A strong and mobile forward, Spawton-Guy showed great promise last year, kicking 26 goals from 17 matches as a bottom-age player for West Perth’s colts, along with averaging 11.2 disposals and 3.8 marks. He continued to develop impressively this year, highlighted early in the season with a 29-disposal and 11-mark game at Colts level. Went on to play all four matches for Western Australia at the National Championships, as well as five games at senior level in the WAFL. In all he kicked 33 goals in 19 matches, which included three matches for Western Australia against the Allies and multiple goals in four of his five matches at WAFL senior level. His 2km time trial (6:45) and agility test (8.19 seconds) were both sound performances at the Draft Combine for a player of his size.

Harry Van Hattum
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: St Mary’s
Date of Birth: 01/07/2008
Height: 205cm
Profile: An athletic ruck with an awesome natural leap and sharp competitive streak, Van Hattum has exceptional speed for a player of his size and can burst from stoppages like a midfielder. Was a little under done at the start of the National Championships after missing games due to injury but grew in confidence as the tournament unfolded. Averaged 10.8 disposals, 2.5 marks and 22 hit-outs and was among Victoria Metro’s best against both the Allies and South Australia before dominating in the demolition of Victoria Country to earn All Australian honours. Had an excellent year for the Northern Knights under the tutorage of former Collingwood star Anthony Rocca, where he averaged 19.1 disposals, 3.6 marks, 5.9 clearances and 20.4 hit-outs to win selection in the Talent League Team of the Year and round off an excellent Draft year. Showcased his natural leap to be ranked sixth in the running vertical jump with a leap of 95cm at the Draft Combine.

Benji van Rooyen
State: Western Australia
State League Club: Claremont
Community Club: Wembley Downs
Date of Birth: 17/09/2008
Height: 203cm
Profile: A mobile ruck who is aggressive and productive at stoppages, van Rooyen had an impressive development year, which included debuting at senior level with Claremont and winning All Australian honours at the National Championships. He imposed himself for Western Australia at the Championships by providing consistent supply to his midfield group and following up at ground level. Averaged 14 disposals at 75 per cent efficiency, 9.5 contested possessions, 4.2 clearances, 2.5 tackles and 20.5 hit-outs. A resilient type, he played 20 matches this year in the pathway, including showcasing his rapid improvement by representing the Australia U18 team in two matches in April. Moved well at the Draft Combine for a player of his size, with his agility run (8.38 seconds) an impressive result. Is the younger brother of Melbourne forward Jacob, who was a first-round draft pick in 2021.

Charlie Bradford
State: South Australia
State League Club: West Adelaide
Community Club: Mitcham
Date of Birth: 08/02/2008
Height: 193cm
Profile: A tall forward who is mobile and strong overhead, Bradford played all four matches for South Australia at the National Championships, starring against the Allies by kicking four goals from six marks and 10 disposals in a clear indication of his potential. Continued his development at under-18 level for West Adelaide and had a taste of reserves footy, with his vice-like grip overhead and ability to read the ball in the air strong assets. His agility time for a player of his dimensions was impressive at the state Draft Combine in South Australia, recording a 8.36 second run.

Jett Elek
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Geelong Falcons
Community Club: Leopold
Date of Birth: 17/04/2007
Height: 202cm
Profile: A developing athletic ruck, Elek continued to work on both his ruck and forward craft as an approved 19-year-old in both the Talent League and National Championships. Played all four matches for Victoria Country at the Championships, averaging 9.5 disposals and four marks, as well as converting two goals. For the Geelong Falcons he kicked 12 goals in 12 Talent League matches and always looked dangerous when rotated forward, particularly with his marking on the lead. Averaged 5.4 marks, as well as 12 hit-outs and 13 disposals. Also showed a good natural leap at the state Draft Combine in Victoria, recording a running vertical jump of 79cm.

Jobe Janeway
State: South Australia
State League Club: Glenelg
Community Club: Kongorong
Date of Birth: 04/01/2008
Height: 207cm
Profile: Ruck who has the height and natural leap to compete at stoppages, Janeway was given the opportunity to play against the best in the National Championships, representing South Australia in three matches where he averaged 5.7 disposals and 12.7 hit-outs. Continued his development with Glenelg predominantly at under 18s level, with a taste of reserves football in the SANFL. Was a dominant ruck in Glenelg’s premiership-winning team at underage level, where his marking started to blossom. He averaged 27 hit-outs along with 10.6 disposals in nine matches. Recorded a running vertical jump of 77cm at the state Draft Combine in South Australia.

Kane Johnston
State: Western Australia
State League Club: Perth
Community Club: Harvey Bulls
Date of Birth: 26/06/2002
Height: 196cm
Profile: Mature-aged tall forward with outstanding athletic attributes, Johnston has continued to develop as a Draft prospect in more than 50 games at senior level in the WAFL. His toughness and work rate are assets, along with his mobility. Kicked 27 goals for Perth this year to attract further interest from AFL scouts, with his six-goal haul against the West Coats Eagles in the opening round of the season a standout performance. He went on to average 11.2 disposals and 4.2 marks from 14 matches in a breakout year. Moved smoothly at the state Draft Combine in Western Australia, with his speed in the 20m sprint (3.03) and 2km time trial (6:12) both impressive for a player of his dimensions.

Aidan McCartney
State: NSW-ACT
State League Club: Sydney Swans Academy
Community Club: North Shore Swans
Date of Birth: 04/11/2008
Height: 190cm
Profile: A developing tall forward with elite goal kicking craft, McCartney provides a safe set of hands overhead and on the lead and has nice speed off the mark to present himself as a target in attack. Showed real potential in his 16th and 17th years before a stress-related hip injury ruled him out of 2026 in a cruel setback. However, his performances prior were enough for North Melbourne to reward his potential, given he is father-son eligible for the Kangaroos, a club that his father Jason played 109 of his 182 AFL games. McCartney also had the option to nominate for the Sydney Swans as a member of the Sydney Swans Academy for selection as a Club Academy selection under that AFL rule.

Reece Thompson
State: Queensland
State League Club: Brisbane Lions Academy
Community Club: Sherwood
Date of Birth: 08/10/2007
Height: 192cm
Profile: A left-footed third tall forward, Thompson overcame an ACL injury in 2025 to present as an approved 19-year-old player for the Brisbane Lions Academy before winning Allies selection for the National Championships through his promising performances with the Lions. Caught the eye by kicking four goals against both the Geelong Falcons and Sandringham Dragons in the Talent League, which also earned him a couple of games with the Lions’ VFL team and then with Allies, where again his athleticism and goal sense where features of his game at the higher level. Gave a glimpse of his natural leap with his running vertical jump (83 cm) impressive at the state Draft Combine in Victoria.

Flynn Woolhouse
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Collegians
Date of Birth: 06/05/2008
Height: 195cm
Profile: A naturally talented and athletic tall forward, Woolhouse first caught attention in 2024 by kicking six goals for Victoria Metro against Victoria Country in an under-16 trial match. He gained valuable experience last year, playing nine Talent League games for the Oakleigh Chargers, with his best performance being four goals against the Dandenong Stingrays in Round 11. This season he showed thin slices of his undoubted potential with the Chargers, kicking 10 goals in nine matches and then exploded when given a chance playing for Victoria Metro. Took 10 marks and kicked five goals from 14 disposals in a dominant performance against Victoria Country in the final match of the National Championships. Showcased his athletic potential at the state Draft Combine in Victoria, with his speed (2.96 seconds for the 20m sprint), running vertical jump (85cm) and agility (8.22 seconds) all good indicators of his physical assets.

Brady Wright
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Werribee VFL
Community Club: Darley
Date of Birth: 19/12/2004
Height: 194cm
Profile: Mature-aged tall forward who has been on the AFL radar since 2022, when he kicked 23 goals for the GWV Rebels when he worked in tandem with eventual No. 1 Draft pick Aaron Cadman. Wright emerged as a genuine Draft prospect this year with an outstanding campaign for Werribee in the VFL. He kicked 49 goals in 17 matches, including seven majors against reigning premier Footscray in Round 17 to win the prestigious Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal as the VFL’s most promising player. His strong marking and accurate kicking made him a real force in his second season at this level. Showed his athleticism at the state Draft Combine in Victoria, with his agility (8.12 seconds) and running vertical jump (83 cm) both impressive for a player of his type.

Defenders

Wil Antrobus
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Community Club: Edithvale Aspendale
Date of Birth: 18/04/2008
Height: 182cm
Profile: An extremely composed left-footed defender, Antrobus is more than often the designated kicker, using his lethal and penetrating disposal to break the lines and set up his team going forward. Had an impressive Talent League season with the Dandenong Stingrays, where he also demonstrated the ability to defend first on a range of different types of opponents. Averaged 22.3 disposals at 80% efficiency, including an outstanding 28-disposal and best on ground performance in the preliminary final win over reigning premiers the Eastern Ranges. His dynamic left foot was also productive for Victoria Country during the National Championships, averaging 16.2 disposals at 78% efficiency with 4.2 rebound 50s across four matches. Showed very good athleticism at the Draft Combine, with his running vertical jump (87cm) and 2km time trial (6:41 seconds) both strong performances.

Tyson Bradley
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Highett
Date of Birth: 16/09/2008
Height: 195cm
Profile: A super reliable tall defender with fast feet, Bradley emerged this year as one of the best performed players of his type and was always assigned to the opposition's most dangerous marking forward. Was superb at club and representative levels, being rarely beaten in a contest, taking intercept and contested marks and neatly using the ball by hand and foot. For Victoria Metro he averaged 14.5 disposals at 86% efficiency, with 6.5 marks and five rebound 50s. Was among his team’s very best against both South Australia and Victoria Country and was rewarded with All Australian honours as well as the title-winning team’s MVP award. His body positioning and aggressive spoiling meant he was rarely beaten one-on-one, which was consistently on display with the Sandringham Dragons at club level, where he averaged 13 disposals and five marks in eight matches to be named captain of the Talent League Team of the Year. His elite agility for a player of his size was on full display at the Draft Combine, being ranked sixth overall on the agility test (7.99 seconds), along with his running vertical jump (90cm) being a top-10 result.

Sam Devers
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: Blackburn
Date of Birth: 27/03/2008
Height: 189cm
Profile: An attacking defender who can pinch-hit in the midfield, Devers was impressive as a bottom-aged player last year and was part of the Eastern Ranges premiership team. A shoulder reconstruction delayed his start to 2026, returning for his team’s final seven Talent League matches. Made the most of his return, averaging 17 disposals at 78% efficiency and five marks, which include solid performances in the finals against both the Oakleigh Chargers and Dandenong Stingrays with his run and creativity impressive. Despite coming off a limited preparation, he was good enough to earn selection for Victoria Metro in two matches at the National Championships, adding to his experiences this year. Really showcased his elite athleticism at the Draft Combine, with his speed (2.93 seconds for the 20m sprint) and natural leap (97cm running vertical jump) both top-10 finishes, as well as having a strong 2km time trial (6:34) to round off his impressive physical profile.

Jake Eime
State: South Australia
State League Club: Central District
Community Club: Golden Grove
Date of Birth: 29/07/2008
Height: 182cm
Profile: A dashing defender who uses his line-breaking speed to open up the game, Eime also penetrates with his precision kicking. The talented Indigenous youngster became an exciting prospect this year with his prolific ball-winning ability at club and state level. His dash and dare were outstanding for South Australia during the National Championships, averaging 20.2 disposals at an excellent efficiency rate of 76.5 %. Was often the preferred exit kicker, setting up many forward moves for his team and was rewarded for his elite performance with All Australian selection. At under 18s level with Central District he was similarly prolific, averaging 22 disposals at 75% efficiency in 12 matches. Also played a couple of games with the Adelaide Crows’ SANFL team, adding to his experiences this season. Was very prominent in the 2km time trial at the Draft Combine, with his time of 6:13 a top-10 finish.

Harry Franz
State: South Australia
State League Club: Glenelg
Community Club: Kadina
Date of Birth: 27/11/2008
Height: 193cm
Profile: A tall defender who is a progressive type with excellent physical assets, Franz held down a key defensive role across all four games for South Australia at the National Championships. Excelled one-on-one, showing a sharp competitive edge and composure with the ball. Was a mainstay for his club at under 18s level, playing a pivotal role in Glenelg’s premiership-winning team where he averaged 16 disposals at 76% efficiency, along with five marks across 10 matches. Showed his natural leap at the Draft Combine with a strong performance in the running vertical jump (83cm).

Mitchell Harris
State: South Australia
State League Club: Woodville-West Torrens
Community Club: Kadina
Date of Birth: 01/07/2008
Height: 196cm
Profile: A consummate professional in his approach to his development, Harris’ stocks continued to rise this year, with his intercept marking and ability to control his position seeing him rarely beaten. Was among South Australia’s best against Western Australia, the Allies and Victoria Country during the National Championships, where he averaged 9.2 disposals at 73% efficiency and 3.5 marks to earn All Australian honours. He progressed from dominating under 18 football for Woodville-West Torrens to debuting at senior level, including playing finals, where he was again very impressive with his one-on-one ability and showed he was clearly up to the challenges of senior football. Did not test at the Draft Combine due to an ankle injury.

Tate Hodgson
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: Park Orchards
Date of Birth: 24/07/2008
Height: 197cm
Profile: A tall and courageous defender, Hodgson's intercept and contested marking ability shone during the U16 National Championships in 2024, earning him All Australian honours. A back injury sidelined him for the entire 2025 season, but he returned to perform well this year at club and representative level, with his mobility and elite ball use features of his game. He was rock solid in defence for Victoria Metro’s title-winning team at the National Championships, averaging 16 disposals at 84% efficiency with five marks. Hodgson was composed in the air and used the ball well in 12 matches for the Northern Knights, looking both courageous and comfortable in defence and averaging 16 disposals across four matches. Showed he was rock-hard fit at the Draft Combine, with his 2km time trial (6:49 seconds) a strong performance for a player of his physique.

Gus Kennedy
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Community Club: Carrum Patterson Lakes
Date of Birth: 21/02/2008
Height: 187cm
Profile: A powerfully-built defender, Kennedy is a consistent performer who brings a hard-at-it style which sees him win plenty of contested possessions, while his speed provides rebound from defence. An agile type and good decision-maker, he is an ultimate pro. Captained the Dandenong Stingrays and won their best and fairest award after averaging 19 disposals per game, while featuring among their better players in the Grand Final loss to the Gippsland Power. At representative level was a consistent ball winner for Victoria Country, providing drive and rebound from the back half, averaging 20 disposals at 76% efficiency and four marks. Was among his team’s best players against both Western Australia and Victoria Metro. Had a taste of VFL football with Collingwood and was rewarded for his excellent season with selection in the Talent League Team of the Year. Tested exceptionally well at the Draft Combine, with his 20m sprint (2.97 seconds) and running vertical jump (97cm) both top-10 finishes.

Xavier Ladbrook
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Nar Nar Goon
Date of Birth: 16/10/2008
Height: 203cm
Profile: A unique left-footed tall defender with massive upside, Ladbrook applied his craft both forward and back this year. Used his natural athleticism and smarts to win plenty of the ball at both ends of the ground. A one-touch player overhead and a neat distributor by hand or foot, he represented Victoria Country in all four matches at the National Championships and averaged 12 disposals at 76% efficiency, with six marks playing at both ends. Excelled down back late in the year for the Gippsland Power in their premiership winning team, finishing the season with an average of 14 disposals and six marks across 14 games. A member of the AFL National Academy, he also performed well in for the Australia U18 team in two matches against VFL opponents in April and awarded the medal as the team’s best player in the second match against Richmond’s VFL side. Had a top-10 finish in the running vertical jump (92cm) at the Draft Combine and performed exceptionally well for a player of his height in the 2km time trial (6:38).

Mason McGroder
State: NSW-ACT
State League Club: Sydney Swans Academy
Community Club: Maroubra Saints
Date of Birth: 18/09/2008
Height: 195cm
Profile: A powerful and athletic tall defender who is aggressive in the air, McGroder also possesses excellent closing speed and intent to compete with his chasing and tackling at ground level. A dual-sport athlete who is a world-ranked long jumper, he has had limited exposure to high levels of football, having only played six matches this year. That tally included three games for the Sydney Swans Academy in the Talent League, as well as one game for the Allies at the National Championships. Won a silver medal in August at the 2026 World Athletics U20 Championships held in the USA, highlighting his elite athletic ability. Really showcased that elite athleticism at the Draft Combine by winning the 20m sprint (2.83 seconds) and being ranked second in the running vertical jump (107cm), highlighting unique attributes for a potential AFL defender. Being a member of the Sydney Swans Academy, the Swans can match a bid for his services at the AFL Draft.

Kai Parker
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: St Mary’s
Date of Birth: 17/10/2008
Height: 189cm
Profile: A medium defender whose ball use and rebound are features of his game, Parker was a star for Victoria Metro during the National Championships, averaging 15 disposals at 80% efficiency and seven marks in the four matches for the title winners. A promising Indigenous talent, he also showed great potential for the Northern Knights in the Talent League, averaging 19 disposals at an elite 90% efficiency and five marks. His ability to nullify the opposition’s most dangerous forwards was a major asset. A shoulder injury curtailed his season with five games remaining and meant he did not test at the Draft Combine.

Clancy Snell
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Mirboo North
Date of Birth: 21/08/2008
Height: 197cm
Profile: A tall defender who knows how to nullify first and is strong overhead when the opportunity presents, Snell’s kicking from defence is also a feature of his game. He was a consistent player for Victoria Country during the National Championships, featuring among his team’s best in matches against the Allies, South Australia and Victoria Metro. Averaged 13 disposals at 73% efficiency and seven marks to be selected in the All Australian team. Also had a great season with the Gippsland Power, where he was forthright as a co-captain in their premiership year. Averaged 14 disposals at 82% efficiency with six marks to finish third in the Power’s best and fairest award and win selection in the Talent League Team of the Year. His endurance and competitiveness were both on full display at the Draft Combine, with an impressive performance in the 2km time trial (6:23).

Darcy Szerszyn
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Community Club: Seaford
Date of Birth: 20/05/2008
Height: 189cm
Profile: A powerful defender who intercepts well in the air, Szerszyn provides exciting run from defence and can match up on smaller or medium-sized opponents. He had an interrupted start to the season while recovering from a shoulder injury but still represented Victoria Country in four matches during National Championships, averaging 17 disposals at 81% efficiency, and looked composed at the level. An AFL Academy member, he had a solid back half of the year with the Dandenong Stingrays, averaging 13 disposals and five marks in nine matches before getting a gauge of the next level with a match for North Melbourne’s VFL team. His exciting burst of speed was a feature he displayed at the Draft Combine, ranking sixth on the 20m sprint (2.91 seconds), with his running vertical jump (89cm) also a top-10 finish.

Billy Wigmore
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Western Jets
Community Club: Yarraville Seddon Eagles
Date of Birth: 29/03/2008
Height: 188cm
Profile: A medium defender who reads the play superbly to intercept mark, Wigmore also shows great composure and uses the ball well by hand and foot on the rebound. Had an outstanding year at both representative and club level. Averaged 17 disposals and six marks for Victoria Metro at the National Championships to win All Australian selection and was dominant in the impressive win over Western Australia. He marked everything that came his way at club level for the Western Jets, with his ability to read the play and intercept impressive all season. Averaged seven marks and 19 disposals for the Jets and was recognised with Talent League Team of the Year selection. Rounded off an impressive year with a strong endurance performance in the 2km time (6:23) at the Draft Combine.

Oliver Bartal
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Old Haileybury
Date of Birth: 04/03/2008
Height: 191cm
Profile: A left-footed medium defender who intercepts well and makes good decisions with his ball use, Bartal had a dominant back half of the season for the Sandringham Dragons in the Talent League. An impressive finals campaign earned him a late call up to the state Draft Combine in Melbourne. Played 14 games in the Talent League where he averaged 15 disposals at 77% efficiency and five marks, along with being an outstanding player with Haileybury College in APS football. Demonstrated a very good combination of speed during testing at the state Draft Combine, with strong results in the 20m sprint (2.95 seconds) and agility test (8.15 seconds).

Tom Brown
State: Western Australia
State League Club: Claremont
Community Club: Swanbourne
Date of Birth: 29/07/2008
Height: 189cm
Profile: A medium defender who can both lockdown his opponent as well as intercept in aerial contests, Brown was at his best against the best, named Western Australia’s best player against the title-winner Victoria Metro at the National Championships. An impressive one-on-one player who also provides good rebound, he grabbed seven marks (three contested), along with 10 disposals and showed he loves the physical side of the game. A premiership player at Colts level in his bottom-age year, he averaged 12 disposals in six matches this year, as well as playing all four matches at the National Championships. Has the capability of playing on taller and smaller opponents with athleticism to match them aerially and at ground level. His running vertical leap (81cm) was impressive at the state Draft Combine in Western Australia.

Jack Gordon
State: South Australia
State League Club: Central District
Community Club: Salisbury
Date of Birth: 05/01/2008
Height: 185cm
Profile: A medium defender who can play on both taller and smaller opponents, Gordon knows when to defend and when to attack. His speed and clean hands overhead and at ground level are other key assets. Won All Australian honours at the U16 National Championships in 2024 and this year progressed from being a dominant force at underage level to play some senior and reserves football for Central District, furthering his development. Gordon is a member of the AFL National Academy and will derive great benefit from the experience of representing the Australian U18 team in April. Was a strong performer for South Australia at this year’s National Championships, averaging 16 disposals in four matches with his ability to intercept and his courage in the contest clearly apparent. Did not test at the state Draft Combine due to a hamstring injury.

Archie Hill
State: Queensland
State League Club: Gold Coast Suns Academy
Community Club: Broadbeach
Date of Birth: 04/03/2008
Height: 183cm
Profile: A powerful running defender, Hill has consistently provided his team with exciting rebound from the back half in the past three seasons. Won the Gold Coast Suns Academy’s MVP award and All Australian selection at the U16 National Championships in 2024 and the Suns Academy’s Player of the Year at under-18 level this year. A member of the AFL National Academy, he also worked extremely hard in defence playing for the Australia U18 team in two matches against VFL opposition in April. Was also a prominent member of the Allies, averaging 14 disposals in four matches during the National Championships. Played six matches at VFL level with the Suns, including having an impressive 26 disposals in his debut match against the Brisbane Lions, a season highlight playing on the wing. Showcased his competitiveness and endurance with an impressive 6:19 in the 2km time trial at the state Draft Combine held in Melbourne.

Garrison Kenh
State: Western Australia
State League Club: East Perth
Community Club: Ellenbrook
Date of Birth: 19/04/2008
Height: 182cm
Profile: An exciting left-footed defender, Kenh is athletically gifted with an outstanding natural leap and dazzling speed to break the lines and create from the back half. At the U16 National Championships in 2024 his potential and performance were recognised with All Australian honours. Took a while to reach his best form this season but then grabbed his opportunity when presented. Was prominent in two games for Western Australia in the National Championships, averaging 23 disposals at 80% efficiency. With his family originally hailing from Liberia in West Africa, Kenh is part of the West Coast Eagles’ Next Generation Academy and he played two WAFL matches with the Eagles at senior level late this year. Demonstrated his impressive athletic profile at the state Draft Combine in Perth with strong performances in the 20m sprint (2.93 seconds), agility test (8.20 seconds) and running vertical jump (82cm).

Kale Matthews-Hampton
State: South Australia
State League Club: Sturt
Community Club: Strathalbyn
Date of Birth: 19/05/2008
Height: 188cm
Profile: A classy, left-footed defender with exceptional footy IQ, Matthews-Hampton has consistently demonstrated the ability to read the play and take intercept marks. A dual-sport athlete, he has also excelled in basketball National Championships at an underage level for South Australia Country. This season he averaged 21 disposals and six marks across seven matches for Sturt's under-18s. He played all four matches for South Australia at the National Championships, where his exciting aerial abilities and ball use were on display, averaging 14 disposals and showing impressive dash off half back. Showcased his athletic abilities with his at the state Draft Combine in Adelaide with impressive results for the 20m sprint (2.98 seconds), agility test (8.25 seconds) and running vertical jump.

Jake Medved
State: NSW-ACT
State League Club: Sydney Swans Academy
Community Club: Manly Warringah Wolves
Date of Birth: 02/06/2008
Height: 193cm
Profile: A dual-sport athlete who can explode from defence, Medved comes from a touch footy background where he excelled to win All Australian honours, before enticed into the Sydney Swans Academy only 12 months ago. Has developed quickly to become a genuine AFL prospect. A very competitive type, he intercepts very well and uses his speed to outnumber the opposition and link up in handball chains to rebound from defence. Averaged 16 disposals in six Talent League matches for the Sydney Swans Academy, before really impressing with a 30-disposal performance for the NSW-ACT team in a trial match against South Australia at under 18s level. Played all four National Championships matches for the Allies, showing his ability to play tall or small. He also had a taste at VFL level in two games for the Swans, which included gathering 19 disposals against the GWS Giants in another glimpse of his potential. Was unable to test at the state Draft Combine due to ankle injury.

Charlie Nash
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: Park Orchards
Date of Birth: 20/05/2008
Height: 194cm
Profile: A tall defender who is courageous in the air, with his intercept marking a feature, Nash has shown he can also be swung forward and provide a dangerous marking target in attack. A premiership player at a bottom-ager with the Eastern Ranges in 2025, he has neat foot skills and a sharp competitive edge. He consistently displayed those traits this year for the Eastern Ranges, averaging 13 disposals at 77% efficiency and five marks in 16 matches. An impressive all-round athlete, he showed very good agility (8.29 seconds) and endurance (6:32 in the 2km time trial) at the state Draft Combine in Melbourne.

Klay Nicholls
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: GWV Rebels
Community Club: Portland
Date of Birth: 15/05/2008
Height: 188cm
Profile: A medium defender who defends first and then reads the cues exceptionally well to intercept mark, Nicholls also is an elite decision maker and can play on taller and smaller opponents. He displayed these features while representing Victoria Country in all its four National Championships matches, averaging 15 disposals at 82% efficiency. His 21 disposals against South Australia in the one-point loss at Mars Stadium made him one of Victoria Country’s best players, before another strong performance against the Victoria Metro in the final game. He was a consistent ball winner for the GWV Rebels this year, averaging 20 disposals at 79% efficiency in 14 matches. Presented well athletically at the state Draft Combine in Melbourne, with his agility test (8.32 seconds) and 2km time trial (6:39) both solid performances.

Jake Soutar
State: Western Australia
State League Club: East Perth
Community Club: West Coast
Date of Birth: 22/06/2006
Height: 192cm
Profile: A tall defender with a vice-like grip overhead, Soutar debuted at senior level in the WAFL last year but cemented a place in 2026. He had a breakout year, playing 20 games for East Perth, averaging 17 disposals, seven marks and three tackles to win his club’s best and fairest and become a genuine Draft prospect. Soutar intercepts very well and is both good in the air and at ground level, with the ability to launch attacks from the back half. Has also shown he can play on taller and smaller opponents and impressed with a solid 18 disposals and five marks for the Western Australian U20s team in their annual Challenge match against the state U18s earlier in the year. Tested very impressively at the state Draft Combine in Perth, with notable performances in the agility test (8.05 second) and 2km time trial (6:37) to round off a fine progressive year.

Cooper White
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Community Club: Red Hill
Date of Birth: 05/11/2008
Height: 193cm
Profile: A tall defender who is rarely beaten one-on-one, White comes off his opponent extremely well to impact the contest, using his anticipation to great effect. A good decision-maker with ball in hand and neat with his disposal, he also looks to have plenty of upside with his physical development, noting he only turns 18 years of age in November. Progressed well this year, playing 13 matches with the Dandenong Stingrays and averaging 10 disposals and three marks to earn an opportunity to represent Victoria Country against the Allies. Rounded off his year by running a 6:45 in the 2km time trial at the state Draft Combine, which was a solid result for a player of his type.

Jasper Williams
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: East Brighton Vampires
Date of Birth: 19/08/2008
Height: 195cm
Profile: An athletic tall defender with a genuine aerial presence, Williams looks to have plenty of upside following a year when injury restricted him to only four matches at club level. He averaged 11 disposals and five marks in those appearances for the Sandringham Dragons in the Talent League. Had been super impressive playing as a ruckman at school level, with his vice-like grip overhead and sound fundamentals, including being clean below the knees and a neat kick, features of his game. Sometimes seeing just a thin slice of elite talent is enough for an AFL club to select a player of Williams’ profile, knowing he has enormous upside. Was unable to test at the state Draft Combine due to leg injury.