2025 AFL Draft Preview: GWS GIANTS


Michael Alvaro

Image Credit: Rookie Me Central

HAVING achieved finals finishes in all three seasons under Adam Kingsley to date, Greater Western Sydney (GWS) is well poised to bolster its ‘Orange Tsunami’ style at the upcoming draft. The Giants lay claim to a first round selection and may only strike once, doing so around midway through night one.

>> 100+ PROFILES: View the 2025 AFL Draft Guide

2025 RECORD: 5th H&A | 16-7 | 115.3% | Eliminated: Elimination Final
2025 PICKS: 12, 35
FUTURE PICKS: ’26 R1, ’26 R2, ’26 R4 | ’27 R1, ’27 R2, ’27 R3, ’27 R4
ACADEMY PROSPECTS: Riley Hamilton, Jim Houston, Tallis McMillan  

FIRST PICK:
Pick 12

The Giants have already jumped ahead two spots with their first pick after engineering a deal with the Western Bulldogs during trade period. It leaves them well poised to pounce on an athletic, prolific runner who can fill a list hole across half-back or the wing.

Three names fit that mould. Oskar Taylor is one who has consistently come up in reference to the Giants, with his dare, speed, and foot skills making him a genuine weapon off half-back. GWS isn’t afraid to take a bolter either, although Taylor has now long been established in the first round bracket.

Another heavily-linked prospect is Jacob Farrow. The leading West Australian will also likely cut his teeth off half-back but has potential to become a long-term midfielder. That factor, along with his smooth movement and raking left-foot have drawn comparisons to Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson.

The third prevalent link is South Australian Harley Barker, who some clubs will be hoping slides into the 20-30 range. While he will miss much of his first year due to an ACL tear, he showed plenty as the All-Australian wingman with his speed and outside running ability, in the mould of Geelong’s Ollie Dempsey.

Outside of those three, a player which fits the list need would be Josh Lindsay. While not overly quick, he can break the lines and shift angles with his elite foot skills, both across half-back and the wing. The Geelong Falcons standout will be right in the Giants’ hitting zone if they see fit.

If not an outside runner, perhaps long-term key forward fold is in the offing for GWS. Archie Ludowyke has been touted as a potential option here, moulding his game on fellow left-footed forward Aaron Cadman. His athleticism and upside suit the Giants’ style, and he should be afforded time to develop.

Cameron Nairn shoots on goal | Image Credit: Rookie Me Central

REMAINING CROP:
Pick 35

Poised to only make one or two selections, this choice comes down to whether any players are left on the Giants’ draft board come their second pick. Perhaps a prospect like Cameron Nairn would suit if available. His running game and aerial ability as a forward/wingman are highly promising.

The Giants are also nicely placed to beat Melbourne to electric small forward Latrelle Pickett – if he isn’t snapped up on night one. Perhaps even a bid will be the move, with cross-town rivals Sydney having suitable types like Harry Kyle and Lachlan Carmichael in their Academy ranks.

Depending on what happens with pick 12, another long-term recruit like Sam Allen could suit. He’s another completing rehabilitation for an ACL tear, but has all the suitable running traits for a GWS wingman. Otherwise, Oakleigh teammate Hunter Holmes fits the bill with his athletic upside.

Outside of the National Draft, the Giants have access to a trio of promising Academy graduates. Over-ager Riley Hamilton could be given a chance as a dynamic tall forward, having earned a state draft combine invite alongside key position utility Jim Houston, and speedy marking forward Tallis McMillan.

The Giants have committed to landing Jayden Laverde as a delisted free agent, while Jake Stringer and Conor Stone will be afforded rookie lifelines. GWS will also have an eye on next year’s crop, with Academy star Ethan Matthews already looking like a top-end prospect.

KEY QUESTIONS:

– Will GWS pull out another surprise in the first round?
– After pick 12, what other area of need will the Giants target?
– Are any of the Giants’ academy prospects in consideration?