Opinion Pick 5* 2024 – Who do you want? (profiles and consensus rankings included)
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Trade time: 
Draft time:
It's been done to death how 'even' this draft is, so for the Pick 5 and 9 threads, I'm going to just take an educated guess at the players that could be available in our range. I expect Smith, Draper and FOS might be off the board by our first pick, but the top of the order is very fluid, so I'll keep them in there for now.
Thanks to noobermensch for the videos below. I'll be updating each draftee's profile as we get closer to the draft.
Please use the poll to vote for your TWO favourite options. Oppo supporters: the votes are visible, so don't bother.
P.S. use threadmarks to navigate to draftee profiles
Draft time:
It's been done to death how 'even' this draft is, so for the Pick 5 and 9 threads, I'm going to just take an educated guess at the players that could be available in our range. I expect Smith, Draper and FOS might be off the board by our first pick, but the top of the order is very fluid, so I'll keep them in there for now.
Thanks to noobermensch for the videos below. I'll be updating each draftee's profile as we get closer to the draft.
Please use the poll to vote for your TWO favourite options. Oppo supporters: the votes are visible, so don't bother.
P.S. use threadmarks to navigate to draftee profiles
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Jagga Smith
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Jagga Smith
- Height: 181cm
- Position: Midfielder
- Twomey rank (October): #5 (down from #3 in Sept)
- What Twomey says:
- October: The extraction gun. Smith's ability to get his hands on the ball is almost unrivalled in this year's draft – whatever team he is in and whatever level he plays, Smith manages to tally up possessions. That was clear when he played three games for Richmond's VFL side late in the season, averaging 27 disposals across that period. The 18-year-old had some big games for Oakleigh, too, including a 50-disposal effort against the Western Jets and 40 the next week against Calder. His innate footy brain, awareness and appetite for the ball make him a serious player inside this year's top echelon. His standout Combine result was his 6:27 minute 2km time trial.
- September: Smith has been at the top of nearly every stats sheet for every game he's played this year. He is a freak in getting his hands on the ball, a very clever extractor of the ball at the clinches who has the consistency to match. His VFL form was excellent for Richmond and he then went back to the Chargers to have 42 disposals and follow it up with 33 disposals and two goals to lead his side to a win over Sandringham, which boasts the best midfield in the Victorian competition. Smith's season ended on Sunday in the Chargers' defeat but he just kept producing in 2024.
- Rookie Me rank (September): #1
- What Rookie Me say:
- Having aimed to play consistent football this year, Smith has certainly lived up to that goal, and some. The prolific midfielder has been in rare form this season, having racked up as many as 50 disposals in one of his Coates Talent League outings. Smith is lightly framed but wonderfully balanced at the contest and hardly loses his footing, able to extract the ball cleanly and zip to the outside untouched. His vision and decision making match his exquisite skills by hand and foot, all of which makes him difficult to deny as a top five talent. He also offers leadership as Oakleigh’s captain and is far and away the Chargers’ best player each time he takes the field. Now, he’s our number one prospect for a second month running.
- Fox rank (October): #2 (up from #3 in Aug)
- What Fox say:
- October: The absolute definition of a ball magnet — but he’s more than that. Smith rarely plays a poor game, due to his footy smarts, cleanliness, inside-outside balance and sickeningly good work ethic, which all helps his ability to find the footy. He finished runner-up in the Larke Medal and was named captain of the All-Australian team after an outstanding national carnival for Vic Metro, averaging more disposals (29.2), contested possessions (13.8) and clearances (6.8) than any other player. That all came amid some bonkers performances for the Chargers at Coates Talent League level, accumulating 33, 33, 50 (yes 50), 40, 42 and 33 disposals across a six-game stretch. Smith’s prospects then were only enhanced playing – and impressing – in three Richmond VFL matches. On VFL debut in tough conditions against Williamstown, Smith racked up a game-high 31 disposals, 18 contested possessions, eight clearances, eight intercepts and five marks as he showed off his full workrate. He backed it up over the next two weeks, finishing with 27 disposals and 24 disposals respectively against Collingwood and Sandringham. Importantly, Smith improved his damage and metres gained with ball in-hand as the year went on. He’s right in Richmond’s Pick 1 frame — and could still be on the board by the time the Tigers have their second pick — but all of North Melbourne, Carlton, Adelaide and Melbourne will strongly consider him too.
- August: Like Ashcroft, Smith rarely plays a poor game, due to his footy smarts, cleanliness, inside-outside balance, sickeningly good work ethic and incredible ability to find the footy. He finished runner-up in the Larke Medal and was named captain of the All-Australian team after an outstanding national carnival for Vic Metro, averaging more disposals (29.2), contested possessions (13.8) and clearances (6.8) than any other player. That all came after some bonkers performances for the Chargers at Coates Talent League level, accumulating 33, 33, 50 (yes 50) and 40 disposals across four consecutive matches. If your club needs a ball magnet this draft, Jagga is your man.
- ESPN rank (September): #1
- What ESPN say:
- Jagga rises to the spot he entered 2024 at -- No. 1. He's the 'can't miss' prospect of the draft, an inside midfielder with insatiable appetite for the contest. He's brilliantly creative, intelligently snaking into pockets of space and releasing outside runners before hitting the turbo to stay involved in transition. It means Smith gets a lot of the ball and attracts a lot of opposition attention. He is this draft's Zak Butters, fighting out of his weight division but never losing a bout. That includes a rich vein of form at VFL level, averaging 27 disposals and six clearances for Richmond. Smith offers huge leadership potential after captaining club and state, and has a draft range cemented inside the top five after a supremely consistent campaign.
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Finn O'Sullivan
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Finn O'Sullivan
- Height: 182cm
- Position: Midfielder
- Twomey rank (October): #2 (up from #4 in Sept)
- What Twomey says:
- October: Recruiters got a good reminder of O'Sullivan's athleticism at the Combine, with the midfielder placing eighth overall for agility (8.136 seconds) and second in the running vertical jump (93cm). Neither would have surprised – his lateral movement is key to his quick-footed approach in the midfield, and his overhead marking can rely on his leap. He also did the 20m sprint in 2.99 seconds and the 2km time trial in 6:28 minutes, marking a strong few days. O'Sullivan's season was hit by different injury issues but he remains a top-flight midfielder in this year's group and a player with high impact. He started the season as a No.1 pick contender and remains it at the end.
- September: After impressing in the VFL with Richmond, where he kicked two goals and showed his fast feet and agility, O'Sullivan returned to the Chargers, where he had the best game of his injury-interrupted draft campaign. The tough midfielder kicked 3.2 from 18 disposals in helping dismantle the Dragons. Unfortunately, in a continuation of his season's issues, he missed the next game with a hip complaint. He played well on Sunday in Oakleigh's defeat, kicking two goals from 20 disposals. Recruiters haven't seen the best of O'Sullivan this year but his overhead marking, smarts and potential still makes him a No.1 pick contender.
- Rookie Me rank (September): #7
- What Rookie Me say:
- Our leading prospect coming into the year, O’Sullivan has been unlucky with a couple of injury setbacks. He managed 15 disposals, four tackles and five inside 50s in Round 1 of the Coates Talent League before a broken thumb sidelined him, and he injured his finger in the second AFL Academy showcase – which ruled him out of Vic Country’s opening match. He remains arguably the most well-rounded midfielder in a unique bunch; boasting a good turn of speed, contested nous, overhead marking ability, and a booming kick. On the flipside, he has very few glaring weaknesses. O’Sullivan may have been booted from top spot early in the year but certainly has top-end talent and may surpass many of his peers at the next level. A clean run at it is required.
- Fox rank (October): #3 (down from #2 in Aug)
- What Fox say:
- October: Came into the year as the No. 1 pick favourite — and could end it by being taken with the No. 1 pick, despite an injury-interrupted season. After making the Under 18 All-Australian team as a bottom-ager last year and winning the Kevin Sheehan Medal as the Under 16 MVP the year before that, O’Sullivan endured a luckless run throughout 2024. He fractured his thumb in his first Talent League game for the Oakleigh Chargers then hurt his finger playing for the AFL Academy, which saw him sidelined for several weeks as the issue required surgery. He came back for Vic Country’s last two matches of the national carnival, but wasn’t at his best by his own admission. But O’Sullivan in August represented the Tigers in the VFL for one game against the Sandringham Zebras. He finished with 12 disposals, but crucially six of them led to Richmond scores – including two goals of his own — with scouts noting he didn’t look out of place against state league opposition. It reminded on-lookers of his undeniable on-field class, to go with his explosive ball-winning capabilities. He’s not a big accumulator of the footy, but recruiters love his ability to change a game without having mass disposals. O’Sullivan finished off his 2024 campaign with two impressive Coates Talent League outings for the Oakleigh Chargers, kicking 3.2 from 18 disposals against Sandringham before starring against the GWV Rebels in a losing preliminary final, booting 2.1 from 20 disposals, eight marks, eight inside 50s and five tackles. O’Sullivan also tested well at the draft combine, finishing eighth in the agility test (8.136 seconds) and second in the running vertical jump (93cm). He’s one of three players in Richmond’s Pick 1 mix. If the Tigers opt for another prospect, it’s hard to see the on-baller slipping past Carlton, which traded up the order to land Pick 3.
- August: Came into the year as the No. 1 pick favourite after making the Under 18 All-Australian team as a bottom-ager last year and winning the Kevin Sheehan Medal as the Under 16 MVP the year before that. But a luckless run throughout 2024 has somewhat halted O’Sullivan’s momentum — although many recruiters believe his best form is better than any other player in the class. O’Sullivan fractured his thumb in his first Talent League game for the Oakleigh Chargers then hurt his finger playing for the AFL Academy, which saw him sidelined for several weeks as the issue required surgery. He came back for Vic Country’s last two matches of the national carnival, but wasn’t at his best by his own admission. The Oakleigh Chargers star – he’s from Koroit but is boarding at Xavier College – is an explosive, ball-winning 182cm midfielder. A strong finish to his 2024 campaign could see him usurp Ashcroft by year’s end.
- ESPN rank (September): #1
- What ESPN say:
- O'Sullivan endured a host of tribulations in 2024. Through injury and form slumps he's struggled to attain any consistency and his campaign ended with a disappointing preliminary final exit on the weekend. Despite it all, there's no doubt what O'Sullivan could become at the next level. He's an excellent aerialist for a midfielder and a bounding runner, covering huge ground either on-ball or off a wing. O'Sullivan loves to get forward to hit the scoreboard and offers one of the highest upsides in the draft, but it's a level that he hasn't shown for 12 months now.
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Sid Draper
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Sid Draper
- Height: 180cm
- Position: Midfielder
- Twomey rank (October): #7 (up from #8 in Sept)
- What Twomey says:
- October: A back issue kept Draper from competing at the Draft Combine but he still impressed clubs in interviews – his no-nonsense, focused and professional approach showing he is ready to step up to the next level. Truly, clubs have known that for some time. After a bottom-age season where he won just about everything, including being a All-Australian, Draper had a shin stress fracture that ruled him out for most of the first half of 2024. His best run of form came late whilst playing for South Adelaide's league team. He has genuine zip, speed and burst from stoppages and knows how to get the ball in his hands.
- September: Recruiters saw the best of Draper in the second half of the year, with the composed, hard-working and polished midfielder stepping up to senior SANFL level. He played six games with South Adelaide's senior team and averaged 22 disposals and five clearances. Draper is at his best when going headfirst into a contest, cleanly collecting a groundball and spinning out with his evasiveness and speed to deliver it to a teammate.
- Rookie Me rank (September): #9
- What Rookie Me say:
- A fleet of foot midfielder, Draper has overcome adversity early in his top-age year to return to form. The South Adelaide product has seen brother Arlo make the big leagues and having played senior footy as a bottom-ager, is South Australia’s best prospect. He’s also the state’s captain and skippered the Panthers to an Under 18 flag last year – being best afield in the Grand Final, no less. Draper’s list of accolades is extensive having also won state MVP honours at the 2023 National Championships. His turn of speed catches the eye, but his work rate really cuts up the opposition and he can roll forward to impact the scoreboard. Draper has also been working on his kicking on the run and is the ultimate professional.
- Fox rank (August): #4 (up from #6 in August)
- What Fox say:
- October: As ready-made for AFL level as any draft prospect this year. Asked to describe himself as a footballer, Draper said: “Fast, powerful, agile, clean and competitive.” He played with maturity beyond his years as a 16-year-old – he turned 17 after SA’s campaign had finished – taking out his state’s MVP award as he averaged 25 disposals, 12 contested possessions, seven inside 50s and four clearances across four games. The start of his 2024 campaign was hindered by a shin stress fracture, yet he still earned All-Australian honours again, averaging 21.0 disposals, 8.0 contested possessions, 3.7 clearances and a team-high 5.5 score involvements. Draper then starred for South Adelaide’s league team late in the season, averaging 22.2 disposals, 6.2 tackles and 4.7 clearances across six games. While he’s a similar size to many of the other top midfield prospects in this year’s class, none of them possess the same raw speed, change of direction and power from stoppages as Draper, who’s the brother of ex-Collingwood player Arlo Draper. The sense is Draper will first come into calculations at Pick 3 (Carlton). But Adelaide — the team Draper has supported since he was a kid — has been the club most strongly linked to him at Pick 4 — and he could be the speedy star midfielder the club is crying out for.
- August: Could be a lot higher by season’s end, for you sense he’s about to hit scary good form — if he hasn’t already. Draper last year played with maturity beyond his years as a 16-year-old – he turned 17 after SA’s campaign had finished – taking out his state’s MVP award as he averaged 25 disposals, 12 contested possessions, seven inside 50s and four clearances across four games. The start of his 2024 campaign was hindered by a shin stress fracture, meaning he only just returned to the field weeks before SA’s Under 18 carnival campaign began. Yet he still earned All-Australian honours again, averaging 21.0 disposals, 8.0 contested possessions, 3.7 clearances and a team-high 5.5 score involvements. Since returning to South Adelaide, he’s thrived at SANFL league level, averaging 25 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 5.5 clearances and 121 ranking points in the past month. While he’s a similar size to many of the other top midfield prospects in this year’s class, Draper possesses awesome speed and power from stoppages, which has seen him draw comparisons to Power star Zak Butters. Sheehan, though, sees a bit of Chad Warner about Draper in his change of direction. He’s the brother of ex-Collingwood player Arlo Draper, who was taken at Pick 45 back in the 2021 draft.
- ESPN rank (September): #2
- What ESPN say:
- Draper was arguably South Adelaide's best player at SANFL level to end the season. He offered shades of Jason Horne-Francis in the Panthers guernsey when accelerating from stoppage and driving the ball deep inside 50. Draper is more of a stoppage savant than a forward-half game-changer, though, adept at winning ground balls and stepping out of congestion with explosive dash. His stoppage craft and ability to hurt the opposition in space makes Draper a safe prospect with a huge ceiling, and he's allayed any questions on defensive intent with gritty performances against men.
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Harvey Langford
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Harvey Langford
- Height: 190cm
- Position: Midfielder
- Twomey rank (October): #3 (down from #2 in Sept)
- What Twomey says:
- October: Langford's standout result at the Combine was his 2km time trial, when the Dandenong Stingrays midfielder completed the run in 6:24 minutes, placing him inside the top-10. It is a trait reflected in his game, with Langford gut running right to the end of contests. He had a terrific draft campaign, with the marking on-baller dominant at all levels. The left-footer's carnival for Vic Country saw him named a joint winner of the Larke Medal while his Stingrays performances were clinical, averaging more than a goal a game and 26 disposals. Langford's appeal comes in his size, presence, versatility and impact – he will be playing significant AFL footy next year.
- September: Langford held his own in his VFL debut last month as Richmond got a close look at his talents. But they have been widely on show across a near complete under-18 season that has seen him dominate for Dandenong nearly every game of the year as well as be a joint winner of the Larke Medal. The taller midfielder impacts games with his long left-foot kicking and forward presence (he has booted 20 goals for the Stingrays) and takes the game forward. There's not much else Langford could have done this season to show his place right among the best 2024 prospects.
- Rookie Me rank (September): #4
- What Rookie Me say:
- One of the top performers at the year’s National Championships, Langford set the tone through midfield with his ability to both win the contested ball and spread forward. His penetrative left foot is used to launch attacks, while he has a handy point of difference in being able to go forward and provide strong marking presence at 190cm. Langford is a co-captain at Dandenong Stingrays and has been a mainstay in the side for two seasons, putting up big numbers across the board. He may split some recruiters given his lack of natural pace, but has all the right footballing attributes and a ravenous work ethic. Having dominated his peers, he was also given a VFL opportunity with Richmond this year – the club he supports.
- Fox rank (October): #6 (up from #14 in August)
- What Fox say:
- October: So much to like about this gun big-bodied midfielder, who’s shown elite consistency across all levels this year. He was named co-Larke Medallist after a mighty national carnival for Vic Country averaging 25.5 disposals, 10.8 contested possessions, 6.2 clearances, 6.2 marks, 6.2 inside 50s and 129.5 ranking points across four games. Langford was also dominant across 15 games for the Stingrays in the Talent League, averaging 25.9 disposals and 4.7 clearances. Whether it’s by hand or foot, inside or outside, on the ground or in the air, Langford is a handful for opposition midfield groups. What impressed scouts during the national champs was Langford’s damage forward of centre, averaging 7.5 score involvements and 2.0 score assists, to go with a Coates League season tally of 20.17. Add in the fact he’s taller than most of this year’s other top midfield prospects, he’s an attractive prospect for clubs with early picks. Langford looms as a top-10 pick on draft night. There’s a slight chance the Tigers take him at Pick 1, but if he’s still there at Pick 6 they would strongly consider him. Rival clubs recently strongly linked him to Melbourne (Picks 5 and 9), too.
- August: A gun big-bodied midfielder who’s elite consistency across all levels was rewarded last month when he was named co-Larke Medallist. Langford was mighty for Vic Country across four games, averaging 25.5 disposals, 10.8 contested possessions, 7.5 score involvements, 6.2 clearances, 6.2 marks, 6.2 inside 50s and 129.5 ranking points. Whether it was by hand or foot, inside or outside, on the ground or in the air, Langford was a dominant player. What impressed scouts most was Langford’s damage forward of centre during the carnival. Langford told AFL 360 last month he was keen to improve his speed from congestion. But the fact he’s taller than most of this year’s other top midfield prospects and shown an ability to hit the scoreboard at Talent League level — 13.11 from 10 games — makes him an attractive prospect for clubs with early picks.
- ESPN rank (September): #9
- What ESPN say:
- Langford may have claim to be the best performed prospect in the country. He took a share in the Larke Medal with Lombard and should be favourite for the CTL best and fairest, to be awarded Wednesday night. The hulking midfielder racks up the ball on the inside and outside of contest, routinely gets forward to kick goals with his booming left leg and can take big grabs around the ground. It's an enticing package that deservedly sees him getting top five consideration. But Langford also has some deficiencies -- he lacks the speed of the top rung of midfielders in these rankings and needs to trim down for the next level. There's every chance Langford becomes a top tier AFL midfielder, but it may take time.
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Sam Lalor
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Sam Lalor
- Height: 187cm
- Position: Midfielder/forward
- Twomey rank (October): #4 (up from #6 in Sept)
- What Twomey says:
- October: Unfortunately a high-grade hamstring injury late in Greater Western Victoria's season ruled Lalor out of the Rebels Grand Final and from testing at the Draft Combine. He was disappointed to miss as he felt he had something to prove with his 2km time trial. Scouts were already well aware of his talents as a powerful, explosive, fending-off midfielder who can just as easily be stationed inside-50 and impact games. That's probably where he will start his AFL career. He likes the physical elements of the game – watch his highlights reel for his tackles and searching for body-on-body moments – and he can also jump and take strong grabs.
- September: A high-grade hamstring injury soured the end of Lalor's season, seeing him sit out the Rebels' finals run and be sidelined for up to 10 weeks. That will rule the powerful and explosive midfielder/forward out of testing at the Draft Combine as well and comes off a season with some injury difficulties scattered through it. Highlighting how clubs view his talent, it hasn't stopped Lalor shaping as a potential top-five pick – he's tough, he chases and tackles, he is big and strong and he showed for Vic Country and the Rebels that he liked important moments in games.
- Rookie Me rank (September): #6
- What Rookie Me say:
- Lalor is somewhat of an unknown within the top 10 having battled through seperate injuries this year – from a hip complaint in preseason, to foot, quad, and hamstring niggles. Although, he was solid for the AFL Academy in game two and starred in his return games for both Geelong Grammar and GWV Rebels. His ability to impact up forward held him in good stead as he eased back into action, though the midfield is where Lalor arguably shines brightest. The big-bodied contested bull draws comparisons to Dustin Martin for his explosiveness and no-nonsense approach at the contest, able to fend off opponents and extract the ball at will.
- Fox rank (October): #5 (up from #8 in August)
- What Fox say:
- October: Has always been regarded as a top-10 prospect, but there’s now a good chance Lalor is taken by the Tigers at Pick 1, such is the excitement around his potential at AFL level. A clean, powerful and physical forward-midfielder with a penetrating kick and strong one-on-one ability, Lalor consistently impacts games forward of centre. he was hampered by foot, quad and hip issues at the start of this season, but returned to the field in the middle of the year with a bang, booting a lazy 7.3 for Geelong Grammar in a school game. He then kicked 3.1 from 16 touches and three clearances in an eye-catching display for Vic Country against the Allies, before clunking two telling marks against Vic Metro in the carnival final. He also averaged 23.0 disposals, 6.2 clearances, 5.8 marks and 6.0 inside 50s from four Coates Talent League games for the Rebels. His strong showing in the back-end of the year and enormous potential at AFL level now have him at the pointy end of the 2024 pool. The growing expectation is Richmond selects the Victoria Country star with the first overall selection. A player who wore the No. 4 guernsey, idolised Dustin Martin and plays in comparable fashion — it seems a dream partnership. Should the Tigers overlook him, Carlton, Adelaide and Melbourne, surely at the latest, would all consider him strongly.
- August: Another who could surge up these rankings over the next few months after an injury-interrupted start to his 2024 campaign. After being hampered by foot, quad and hip issues, Lalor returned to the field in the middle of the year — and booted a lazy 7.3 for Geelong Grammar in a school game. He then booted 3.1 from 16 touches and three clearances in an eye-catching display for Vic Country against the Allies, before clunking two telling marks against Vic Country in the carnival final. A clean, powerful and physical forward-midfielder with a penetrating kick and strong one-on-one ability, Lalor has been compared to triple Norm Smith Medallist Dustin Martin by his Rebels coach David Loader. Lalor, though, is a Collingwood fan who models his game on Jordan De Goey. Many clubs would have Lalor in the top five on their draft boards.
- ESPN rank (September): #6
- What ESPN say:
- Lalor's season ended how it began, on the sidelines due to injury. This time it was a serious hamstring injury that will see him miss the Rebels' grand final and combine testing. Before that, Lalor was starting to show him powerful ball-winning qualities, routinely ripping the ball from stoppage, shaking defenders with a flick of his strong hips and driving the ball inside 50 with a penetrating right boot. His point of difference is his forward work in one-on-ones -- Lalor averaged a contested mark every outing as a midfielder in the CTL and 1.3 as a forward for Country. It's tough to place Lalor any higher given his lack of output and testing results, but it won't stop clubs considering in the first handful of selections.
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Alix Tauru
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Alix Tauru
- Height: 193cm
- Position: Defender
- Twomey rank (October): #9 (up from #10 in Sept)
- What Twomey says:
- October: Tauru had a busy Draft Combine. He had interviews with 17 clubs – everyone wanted a chat with the surging youngster – and he also impressed with his testing, winning the running vertical jump test (94cm), running 3.00 seconds in the 20-metre sprint and 6:36 minutes in the 2km time trial. It came after a strong end to his season with the Gippsland Power, including an exciting qualifying final performance against Dandenong when he swung forward and kicked 2.2 from 16 disposals. A back stress fracture, discovered post-Combine, means he will have a few weeks off before likely being eased into the start of his first pre-season.
- September: 'The Flying Viking' is flying up draft boards. He is the big mover of this Phantom Form Guide on the back of a starring finish to Gippsland Power's season. Tauru has done a bit of everything in the back half of the year – played as a bigger midfielder, as a courageous key defensive interceptor and an aggressive marking forward. It's all been exciting and the main thing with Tauru is not what he is now but what he could be – he's still raw but his talent is obvious. Tauru, who has a Swedish background, kicked 2.2 from 16 disposals in Gippsland's final game against Dandenong. Think James Sicily.
- Rookie Me rank (September): #18
- What Rookie Me say:
- A high flyer in every sense of the phrase, Tauru has firmly planted himself in the draft bolter category. Considered a top 15 candidate, the 194cm defender certainly catches the eye with his aerial ability. He showed glimpses in the early part of the Coates Talent League season, before earning a call up from outside the Vic Country squad on the back of exceptional form in his return from injury. He attacks the ball fearlessly and is capable of playing above his height thanks to a terrific vertical leap. He’s one with raw potential and plenty of upside, especially having played in all kinds of roles recently.
- Fox rank (October): #9 (up from #30 in August)
- What Fox say:
- October: The bolter from nowhere. Was just inside foxfooty.com.au’s top 30 power rankings in July. Next month, he could be taken as early as Pick 2 in the draft. A high-flying, intercept-marking machine, Tauru’s leap and ability to read the play in defence appeals to AFL clubs. He missed games in the early part of the season with a hip injury, but has soared into top-10 calculations over recent months following a strong finish to his Coates Talent League campaign, which saw him boot seven goals and average 15.4 disposals and 5.7 marks from his final nine games before recording the best running vertical jump result (94cm) at the draft combine. Tauru’s upside at AFL level is enormous and has clubs excited, hence nearly all 18 teams interviewed him at national draft combine. It was there rival clubs sensed the strong attachment North Melbourne (Pick 2) had to the exciting Gippsland Power utility. It’d be a bold, aggressive call by the Kangaroos to take Tauru that early in such a stacked draft pool when many of his peers have a stronger and more sustained body of work — hence the widely-held view the Roos would be prepared to slide down the order, perhaps to Richmond’s Pick 6. If the Roos keep Pick 2, there’s every chance they just select Tauru. If they pass on him, it’s hard to see him slipping past that second Richmond pick.
- August: A high-flying, intercept-marking machine, Tauru could be a lot higher on these rankings later in the year. He missed games in the early part of the season with a hip injury, but has loomed large for both the Gippsland Power and Vic Country upon return. He averaged two intercept marks across his three games for Country. Tauru also had 23 disposals and nine marks in his first Coates Talent League game back against Murray and has found some continuity in the weeks since. His leap and ability to read the play in defence appeals to AFL clubs.
- ESPN rank (September): #23
- What ESPN say:
- Tauru is an undeniable talent, placing top-three in the CTL with 2.4 contested marks per outing and doing it both up forward and down back. He's a superb aerialist on the lead and looks comfortable intercepting in defence. At the next level he'll need to become a more rounded talent at ground level and with the ball in hand. Those areas didn't stop him from becoming Gippy's focal point in their finals run and he continued to elevate his stock by beating talented opponents. Tauru's leap and competitiveness allows him to play above 191cm, but he still figures to be a third tall at either end of the ground.
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Harry Armstrong
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Harry Armstrong
- Height: 195cm
- Position: Forward
- Twomey rank (October): #10 (down from #9 in Sept)
- What Twomey says:
- October: Even when Armstrong isn't dominant, he manages to kick goals. The key forward showed that late in the Dragons' campaign, kicking four goals in each of the wildcard round final, the qualifying final and the Grand Final. The straight-kicking left-footer closed the year with 27.10 from 10 games and is still far from the finished product. The 195cm prospect has strong athleticism and finished seventh in the agility test at the Combine and is the best pure key forward in the draft crop.
- September: Armstrong is firming to be the first key position player picked at the draft in November due to a number of factors: he's athletic, tall, quick, fast and has runs on the board. Since injury ruled him out of the start of Vic Metro's carnival, the high-flying and long-kicking left-footer has been a consistent goalkicker, including booting three in Metro's title-deciding win over Vic Country. He is up to 23.9 in nine games for the Dragons and is destined to take a huge hanger one day and haul in a grab on his chest. Bookmark it.
- Rookie Me rank (September): #12
- What Rookie Me say:
- It is no stretch to say Armstrong has been one of the flavours of the month, having elevated his stocks to no end in recent times. The key forward dominated the APS competition, no less with a bag of 10 goals this year, but only debuted for Sandringham Dragons in Round 1 of 2024. After booting multiple goals in each of his first four outings, he was not held goalless this season for a total haul of 27 majors in 10 games. The clinical left-footer plays a relatively simple style, able to fly for strong marks and convert his chances, boasting good speed off the mark and pure fundamentals.
- Fox rank (October): #10 (up from #13 in August)
- What Fox say:
- October: Armstrong has come with a rush in 2024, with AFL clubs quickly falling in love with the gun goalkicker. Despite playing just three games for Vic Metro, Armstrong kicked an equal champs-high nine goals — including five in the final against Vic Country — as he showed off his penetrating left-foot kick, competitiveness in the air and mobility around the ground. Armstrong then took that form back to the Dragons, kicking five four-goal hauls in his final eight matches to finish with 27.10 fort the Coates Talent League season. He’s also been dominant at APS level under Matthew Lloyd for Haileybury College across the past two years, including kicking 10 of his side’s 22 goals in a game earlier in the year. Armstrong now loom as a top-10 selection. There’s an outside chance Melbourne (Pick 5) takes him with its first selection, although the sense is the Dees will more likely target a midfielder at that pick. It’s most likely Armstrong, at this stage, goes to Richmond (Pick 6), St Kilda (Picks 7 and 8) or Melbourne (Pick 9).
- August: Like fellow Vic Metro key forward Matt Jefferson two years ago, Armstrong is coming with a rush, with AFL clubs quickly falling in love with the gun goalkicker. Despite playing just three games, Armstrong kicked an equal champs-high nine goals — including five in the final against Vic Country — as he showed off his penetrating left-foot kick, competitiveness in the air and mobility around he ground. He’s also been dominant at APS level under Matthew Lloyd for Haileybury College across the past two years, including kicking 10 of his side’s 22 goals in a game earlier in the year. Armstrong now looms as a top-15 pick … but could go in the top 10 if there’s a club looking for a key forward and keen to pick on needs.
- ESPN rank (September): #11
- What ESPN say:
- Armstrong is close to the consensus key forward in the pool at this late stage. He's come with a rush, platforming himself at the champs where he led Vic Metro's goalkickers and showed off a clunking contested grab with routine. He's a dead-eye in front of goals too, kicking 9.3 in the champs and 23.9 in the CTL. Armstrong's school coach likens him to Jeremy Cameron with his freewheeling left boot, but Armstrong has shown limitations up the ground when ball hits the deck. His strongest trait is clearly his contested marking and it could see him taken inside the top five on draft night.
- Stats and Highlights:
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Josh Smillie
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Scythe94
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- Thread starter
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- #9
Josh Smillie
- Height: 195cm
- Position: Midfielder
- Twomey rank (October): #8 (down from #7 in Sept)
- What Twomey says:
- October: A good set of testing results at the Combine completed Smillie's draft campaign. The tall midfielder finished in the top-10 for the standing vertical jump but also did well in the running, finishing the 2km time trial in 6:38 minutes and recording a 3.09 second 20m sprint. Smillie's point of difference – his height and size for a midfielder – has been watched closely by recruiters in the second half of his season. His kicking is good, he takes risks with the ball and has shown he can be a forward threat too.
- September: Smillie's season closed with a two-goal game from 26 disposals in the Ranges' wildcard round loss to the Northern Knights. Hitting the scoreboard is a part of the tall midfielder's game, having booted 16.5 this season for his under-18 team. Smillie is a unique prospect given his midfield qualities and his height and he likes to take on things with his right-foot kicking. He is the outlier in a pack of mostly smaller midfielders at the top of the draft. Unlike others in that basket, Smillie didn't play VFL late in the year.
- Rookie Me rank (September): #8
- What Rookie Me say:
- Top of the crop during the early stages of 2024, Smillie is the ultimate prospect. He draws comparisons to Patrick Cripps and Tom Green as a 194cm midfielder, but offers terrific versatility and athleticism to compliment his stoppage craft. He skippered the National Academy and Eastern Ranges, and is highly driven to earn his place as the number one draft pick. Smillie’s poise and ball use for a player his size are quite rare and make him a dynamic threat. While challenged throughout the National Championships among a stacked field of prospects, he is capable of utterly dominating his peers. There’s strong competition for top spot, which saw him usurped in August having led in June and July.
- Fox rank (August): #8 (down from #5 in August)
- What Fox say:
- October: Was higher than this spot earlier in the year. But in a midfield-heavy class, Smillie has the height and size advantage over other top 2024 on-ball prospects. He showed glimpses of his powerful best across a solid four-game campaign for Vic Metro, averaging 18.8 disposals, 10.2 contested possessions, 6.8 score involvements 5.8 clearances, although he missed out on All-Australian selection. But those who watched Smillie’s three-goal, 34-disposals Coates Talent League performance against the Lions academy earlier this year said it was worthy of a player in Pick 1 calculations, for not only did he show off his power and stoppage craft, but he also showcased explosive running and precise kicking when in space. Smillie still seems well placed to be taken at the top-end of this year’s draft, with Melbourne (Pick 5) the earliest link at this stage. It’s hard to see him sliding past St Kilda and Richmond’s top-10 picks.
- August: For some recruiters, Smillie is the best player in it. In a midfield-heavy class, Smillie has the height and size advantage over other top 2024 on-ball prospects, with recruiters likening him to Giants star Tom Green. He showed glimpses of his powerful best across a solid four-game campaign for Vic Metro, averaging 18.8 disposals, 10.2 contested possessions, 6.8 score involvements 5.8 clearances, but missed out on All-Australian selection. But those who watched Smillie’s three-goal, 34-disposals Coates Talent League performance against the Lions academy earlier this year believe they witnessed the No. 1 prospect, for not only did he show off his power and stoppage craft, but he also showcased explosive running and precise kicking when in space. Smillie still seems well placed to be taken at the pointy end of this year’s draft.
- ESPN rank (September): #10
- What ESPN say:
- Smillie fits the new-age midfield prototype, a 6'4 contested beast equipped to dominate stoppage and punch long kicks to gain meterage. He's had patches of commanding performances where he looks simply uncontainable bullocking through contact. But he hasn't shown enough around the ground, taking just one contested mark across his 16 champs and CTL games and only using the ball at 62%. There is so much upside in what Smillie can be at the next level, but the flags are there for clubs to consider.
- Stats and Highlights:
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Murphy Reid
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Scythe94
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Murphy Reid
- Height: 180cm
- Position: Midfielder/forward
- Twomey rank (October): #6 (down from #5 in Sept)
- What Twomey says:
- October: An ankle injury suffered midway through the Coates Talent League Grand Final meant Reid didn't test at the Draft Combine. There were fears he had also suffered a knee injury in the awkward tackle, but he was all clear on that front, apart from aggravating a muscle problem he had been managing in previous weeks. Reid had continued to show his midfield and half-forward talents through Sandringham's finals series, including a three-goal and 32-disposal game against the Jets in the wildcard round and three goals from 25 disposals against Calder in the qualifying final. Reid finished his season averaging 25 disposals a game and he makes them hurt – finding creative options, opening up space for teammates and directing the play with his ball use.
- September: Class, class, class. There's no quicker mind in this year's draft group than Reid, who makes things happen every time he has the ball. If there was a test at the Draft Combine for footy IQ, Reid would win it: he reads the game quicker than others, opens space with his clever, quick and sharp handballing, his kicking hits targets and he slips in and out of trouble at a different speed to other midfielders and half-forwards. Reid had back-to-back three-goal games from the midfield for Sandringham to start its finals series and has averaged 28 disposals at the level this year. There's a reason some clubs have him as the best in the draft and that's because of his impact per possession.
- Rookie Me rank (September): #3
- What Rookie Me say:
- Reid timed his top performance for Vic Metro exceptionally well, and went on to take out MVP honours to strengthen his top 10 credentials. The midfielder was arguably the most unlucky player to miss out on National Academy honours this year but wholly impressed at school, Coates Talent League, and representative levels. While not blessed with natural pace, Reid is fleet of thought with smarts, decision making and ball use being his main assets. He hardly wastes a touch and finds the ball in dangerous areas when not doing so at stoppages. Playing at such a high level alongside a host of the year’s top prospects has only boosted his standing, and he is one of the most creative handball exponents available.
- Fox rank (August): #7 (same as Aug)
- What Fox say:
- October: If anyone has any doubts on Reid, go back and watch his national carnival game for Vic Metro against the Allies. In tough, wet conditions, Reid was the cleanest player on the field, finishing with 24 disposals, 12 contested possessions, six score involvements and five intercepts. He then kicked three goals from 31 touches and eight clearances against South Australia to show how damaging he can be close to goal. Reid would go on to claim Vic Metro’s MVP award and make the All-Australian team. While he’s not the tallest or quickest midfielder in the draft class, Reid is one of the shrewdest and most composed in traffic, while he’s also added forward craft to his trick bag. His ability to perform in big games was personified by his Coates Talent League grand final performance as a bottom-ager last year, booting two goals from 19 touches in Sandringham’s premiership triumph before two three-goal hauls in the Dragons’ 2024 finals campaign. Reid is likely to come into the draft mix from Richmond’s Pick 6 onwards, with St Kilda and Melbourne to consider him too. Some rival clubs, though, wouldn’t be surprised if he slipped into the teens.
- August: An on-baller now arguably pushing the top-five mix after excellent national carnival outings where he averaged 24.5 disposals, 9.2 contested possessions, 7.2 score involvements and 130.8 ranking points to claim Vic Metro’s MVP award and make the All-Australian team. While he’s not the tallest or quickest midfielder in the draft class, Reid is one of the cleanest, shrewdest and most composed in traffic, while he’s also added forward craft to his trick bag, highlighted by his three-goal haul against South Australia in the national champs. He was also the cleanest player on the field in Vic Metro’s win over the Allies amid tough, wet conditions. His ability to perform in big games was personified by his Coates Talent League grand final performance as a bottom-ager last year, booting two goals from 19 touches in Sandringham’s premiership triumph.
- ESPN rank (September): #16
- What ESPN say:
- Reid's season has been superb. For school, club and state his performances see him continue to ascend draft boards to the point of garnering top-10 consideration. He's a damaging midfielder that finds himself on the receiving end of play to finish chances in the forward 50, and his inside ball-winning ability is underrated. The question marks on Reid stem from his athletic profile -- he isn't one to exit congestion with speed or chase down opponents defensively. It's more likely Reid finds a role outside the centre square at the next level where his skills and creativity can shine.
- Stats and Highlights:
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A11dAtP0w3R
Dumpster Fire Diver
- Oct 18, 2013
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No option in the poll of : "thats none of your damn business" ? Disappointing.
A11dAtP0w3R
Dumpster Fire Diver
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Would be happy with any of Smith, Draper, Langford, O'Sullivan, Lalor or Reid (feel he'll be there at 9 though if we want him with the way people are talking). That means its definitely Smillie.
Bluelegs
Digging into the why
Have a feeling Smillie ends up at the Saints.
- May 1, 2024
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Smith or Draper falling to 5 is my dream. I don't quite "see it" with O'Sullivan but I'll trust the consensus that him falling to 5 would be a steal as well. If none of them fall then I'd be happy with Lalor or Langford.
- May 1, 2024
- 120
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Last year I was pretty annoyed that we took "most rated him in the teens" Windsor over "could have gone at 1 or 2" Curtin. Now I have a bigfooty account named after Windsor and would probably take him over anyone from that draft other than Reid and McKercher, so maybe I'm not the most reliable judge.
I do feel a bit vindicated about being keen on Darcy Wilson, though.
I do feel a bit vindicated about being keen on Darcy Wilson, though.
A11dAtP0w3R
Dumpster Fire Diver
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I should clarify my "hate" of Smillie, its not that I think he totally sucks, its just that I dont think hes worth a top 10 pick or fills a need. He could probably look alright on another team where hes the main inside mid and not being shoehorned in like he would with us.
Bluelegs
Digging into the why
I get you. The reason I think Saints take him is he would fill a need for them since their midfield sucks and their picks fall at a point where all the other ready made mids will likely be taken. Also think Lyon would love having a guy in the Cripps/Fyfe mould.
A11dAtP0w3R
Dumpster Fire Diver
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I was the same, but I think Curtin is a bit of a mentally soft player and thats hard to judge going off highlights packages. He'll probably look good once he gets traded home to mummy and daddy in WA.
However, the more I looked into Windsor the more I liked him and was fine with us taking him at 6.
I must admit I haven't been following the draft much but I did noticed you weren't the biggest fan. After watching some of his highlights I thought he looked alright for me. I get what you are saying probably doesn't compliment our midfield if it's more or less what we have.
- Apr 1, 2018
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Someone good.
Scythe94
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These are basically my thoughts exactly. Smith and Draper are my one and two, and I lack a bit of confidence in FOS based off his interrupted 2024. If Smith, Draper, Lalor and Langford are off the board though, happy to take him.
Smillie is/will be fine as a player, but just doesn't do it for me with our list needs/the current way the game is being played. Still yet to see a real standout trait besides his size. At least with Langford (another bigger type), despite his lack of pace, he seems to have a few more strings to his bow and has better lateral movement/evasiveness which will help him at AFL level.
Reid, Armstrong and Tauru I'm happy to look with at Pick 9, just don't feel a need to pick them at 5.
Bluelegs
Digging into the why
Seen a lot of comparisons between Lalor and Dusty/Trac. Don't really get that vibe. Doesn't have the explosive burst of speed out of the contest from what I've seen. Looks more like a Viney/Wines type with a better kick who can also find the goals.
A11dAtP0w3R
Dumpster Fire Diver
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Reminded me more of Colin Sylvia. (likely with a better work ethic)
