Kevin Sheehan’s 2026 Telstra AFL Draft top 40 prospects

Cody Walker in action for Victoria Country during its clash with Victoria Metro at the 2026 Marsh AFL National Championships. Picture: Jordan Sacchetta/AFL Photos

AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan has revealed his top 40 prospects for the 2026 Telstra AFL Draft.

Sheehan has produced profiles on the 106 players who attended the 2026 Telstra AFL Draft Combine events in October, with the profiles released in positional groups across the past month.

He has now unveiled his top 40 prospects in this year’s Draft pool, which includes each player’s major weapons, a comparison to an AFL player their game is modelled on and average ranking points from matches played in the 2026 season.

Sheehan’s top 40 prospects are listed in alphabetical order and not ranked.

The 2026 Telstra AFL Draft will be held on Thursday, November 19 and Friday, November 20. The 2026 Telstra AFL Rookie Draft will follow on Monday, November 23.

Keep updated with all the latest news ahead of this year’s Telstra AFL Draft at the AFL Draft Hub.

KEVIN SHEEHAN’S TOP 40 PROSPECTS

Keenan Boi
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Warragul
Date of Birth: 03/11/2008
Height: 179cm
Weapons: Innate goal sense, clean hands and tackling pressure
AFL player comparison: Isaac Kako
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 81.0 points
Profile: A powerful and skilful small forward and midfielder, Boi brings the heat with his aggressive tackling and pressure and shows plenty of flair and speed to break the game open. He claimed the Gippsland Power’s best and fairest award in their Talent League premiership campaign, displaying innate goal sense with 23 majors in 17 matches. He also averaged 15 disposals and four tackles and showed he could apply his craft in the midfield too. Was really impressive in Victoria Country’s win over the Allies to open the National Championships, picking up 16 disposals, five tackles and kicking two goals before a minor hamstring injury forced him to miss the game against South Australia. The young First Nations star is a member of Hawthorn’s Next Generation Academy.

Tyson Bradley
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Highett
Date of Birth: 16/09/2008
Height: 195cm
Weapons: Reading cues to intercept mark and spoil
AFL player comparison: Jacob Weitering
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 87.1 points
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-ten result.

Lochie Burrows
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Bentleigh
Date of Birth: 11/04/2008
Height: 180cm
Weapons: One-on-one contest work and aerial ability for his size
AFL player comparison: Isaac Heeney
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 69.4 points
Profile: A powerful and strong midfielder and forward who brings energy and personality to the locker room, Burrows added another string to his bow when swung back during Victoria Metro trials. He starred in the new role which he carried through the Championships, playing all four matches and being part of an impenetrable defensive unit for the title-winning team. A contested beast who is clean at ground level and strong aerially, he’s not afraid to take the game on with his speed and step through congestion both weapons. He averaged 14 disposals at 82% efficiency for Victoria Metro and played nine Talent League matches for the Sandringham Dragons, playing predominantly in the midfield and forward. Averaging 15 disposals and five tackles for the Dragons and finished in third place in their best and fairest award. Looked impressive in both the 2km time trial (6:28) and agility test (8.21 seconds) at the Draft Combine.

Arki Butler
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Beaumaris
Date of Birth: 23/04/2008
Height: 182cm
Weapons: Innate goal sense and power
AFL player comparison: Cameron Rayner
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 100.6 points
Profile: An exciting and classy forward and midfielder, Butler has the ability to win the ball in a contest by turning his opponents inside out, with his change of direction and smart use of his body both real weapons. A mercurial talent with a high footy IQ, he was a dangerous presence inside forward 50 during the National Championships. Created many scoring opportunities and booted five goals (and six behinds), before sustaining an injury and missing the final match. Still impressed enough to be awarded All Australian team honours. A member of the AFL National Academy, he was also an All Australian at under-16 level in 2024 and capped an outstanding junior career by being named in the 2026 Talent League Team of the Year. He has strong AFL bloodlines, being the grandson of St Kilda premiership player Allan Davis, who played 250 games across four clubs. Was unable to test at the Draft Combine due to hamstring injury.

Dougie Cochrane
State: South Australia
State League Club: Central District
Community Club: Port Districts
Date of Birth: 02/05/2008
Height: 195cm
Weapons: Overhead marking and precise kicking
AFL player comparison: Willem Duursma
Average player ranking points (SANFL U18s 2025): 125.0 points
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.

Harvie Cooke
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: Eltham
Date of Birth: 04/12/2008
Height: 176cm
Weapons: Creativity and goal sense
AFL player comparison: Dylan Moore
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 98.9 points
Profile: A powerful midfielder and small forward who is creative and tough, Cooke had an outstanding year at club and representative levels. Won the Morrish Medal and the Northern Knights best and fairest award in the Talent League, as well as All Australian honours after an outstanding National Championships campaign for Victoria Metro. He used his natural spring, strong hands overhead and clean disposal as weapons playing predominantly forward for Victoria Metro, averaging 17.5 disposals at 69% efficiency, 3.2 tackles and a goal a game across four matches at the Championships. Excelled with a best on ground performance against South Australia at Marvel Stadium, kicking three goals from 18 disposals and seven marks (two contested), as well as being among Victoria Metro’s best against the Allies. His work around stoppages was outstanding for the Northern Knights, averaging six clearances and five tackles, as well as 25 disposals (50% contested) to win selection in the Talent League Team of the Year. Wrapped up his brilliant Draft year with an impressive athletic performance at the Draft Combine, being ranked fifth in both the 2km time trial (6:08) and the agility run (7.96 seconds).

George Dimer
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: East Brighton Vampires
Date of Birth: 21/06/2008
Height: 173cm
Weapons: Clean hands and footy IQ
AFL player comparison: Gryan Miers
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 124.4 points
Profile: Pocket rocket with speed and agility to burn, Dimer makes things happen with his creative ball use and dynamic movement up forward or through the midfield. Starred for Victoria Metro at the National Championships, with his crumbing work and footy smarts top shelf in the wins over Western Australia and the Allies. He averaged 16 disposals and kicked three goals in three matches, before injury kept him out of the final game against Victoria Country. Had an excellent year for the Sandringham Dragons in the Talent League, averaging 15 disposals and 1.4 goals in seven matches, mixing with his Haileybury College commitments where he starred as their captain. His elite agility was on show at the Draft Combine, being ranked third in the agility test (7.89 seconds), as well as performing strongly in the 2km time trial (6:28) to round out an impressive season.

Ethan Drever
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: GWV Rebels
Community Club: Ballarat Swans
Date of Birth: 10/07/2008
Height: 189cm
Weapons: Burst from stoppage and step through traffic
AFL player comparison: Luke Davies-Uniacke
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 101.2 points
Profile: An exciting midfielder with speed to burn, Drever has clean hands, makes good decisions with the footy and is generally very neat and penetrating with his disposal. Performed exceptionally at club and representative levels throughout the year. Was awarded Victoria Country’s MVP at the National Championships after averaging 20 disposals at 79% efficiency, four tackles and five inside 50s. Was among their best against the Allies, South Australia and Victoria Metro and was rewarded with All Australian honours for his elite performances. He was consistently prolific and dominant for the GWV Rebels in the Talent League, with his trademark bursts from stoppages on regular display. Averaged 28 disposals (14 contested), seven clearances and seven tackles to win the Rebels’ best and fairest and selection in the Talent League Team of the Year. Confirmed his elite athleticism at the Draft Combine with top-five performances in the 20m sprint (2.90 seconds) and running vertical jump (96cm).

Kodah Edwards
State: South Australia
State League Club: South Adelaide
Community Club: Willunga
Date of Birth: 25/07/2008
Height: 182cm
Weapons: Clearances and foot skills
AFL player comparison: Caleb Serong
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 104.9 points
Profile: A midfielder-forward who excels at stoppages as a contested ball winner, Edwards possesses clean hands, great vision and creates plays with his strong game sense and precise kicking. He captained South Australia at the National Championships and showed the way, averaging 22 disposals (nine contested), four clearances and three tackles to win All Australian honours, highlighted by dominant performances against the Allies and Victoria Metro. A member of the AFL National Academy, he was particularly impressive with his stoppage work, composure and ball use in the match against North Melbourne’s VFL team, having 23 disposals to feature among the Australia U18 team’s best. Progressed to play five matches at senior level with South Adelaide, averaging 16 disposals and looking very comfortable and influential at the level. Missed testing at the national Draft Combine due to illness but was able to perform a week later at the state Draft Combine in Adelaide, recording 2.91 seconds for the 20m sprint and an equally impressive 8.18 seconds for the agility test.

Jake Eime
State: South Australia
State League Club: Central District
Community Club: Golden Grove
Date of Birth: 29/07/2008
Height: 182cm
Weapons: Dash and dare
AFL player comparison: Jarman Impey
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 81.5 points
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-ten finish.

Khaled El Souki
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Western Jets
Community Club: Newport
Date of Birth: 04/07/2008
Height: 175cm
Weapons: Unique goal kicking ability and dynamic left-foot kick
AFL player comparison: Paul Curtis
Average player ranking points (Talent League): 113.0 points
Profile: A powerful left-footed small forward or midfielder with a sharp competitive edge and prolific goal sense, El Souki was in outstanding form early in the season for the Western Jets before he suffered a broken ankle. The injury sidelined him for six weeks, but he was able to make it back for Victoria Metro’s final game of the National Championships. Kicked 40 majors (and only 15 behinds) in 13 matches to top the Talent League goal kicking table, which included two bags of six goals. He was rewarded with Talent League Team of the Year selection and finished third in the Western Jets best and fairest award. Gave a further indication of his innate ability up forward with a three-goal performance in his VFL debut for Footscray. Of Lebanese heritage, El Souki is a member of both the AFL’s Multicultural Academy and the Bachar Houli Academy, as well as the Western Bulldogs’ Next Generation Academy.

Archie Elliott
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: GWV Rebels
Community Club: Horsham
Date of Birth: 10/08/2008
Height: 182cm
Weapons: Innate goal sense
AFL player comparison: Josh Rachelle
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 51.2 points
Profile: Medium forward who is a jack-in-the-box with his spring and marking, Elliott was consistently dangerous up forward throughout the season. He booted an impressive haul of 50 goals in 18 games for both the GWV Rebels and Victoria Country, being the most productive of his type for the season. All this unfolded after playing the first two games for the Rebels as a defender, highlighting he’s still learning his forward craft. Has speed off the mark, great hands and is an accurate kick for goal. Elliott starred for Victoria Country with four goals against South Australia during the National Championships, finishing the campaign by averaging 13 disposals, five marks and 3.1 goals per game. Was runner-up in the Rebels’ best and fairest award, as well as being recognised with Talent League Team of the Year honours. Showed good endurance during the 2km time trial (6:28 seconds) at the Draft Combine.

George Gale
State: Western Australia
State League Club: Claremont
Community Club: Swanbourne
Date of Birth: 06/09/2008
Height: 191cm
Weapons: Running capacity and courage overhead

AFL player comparison: Oliver Dempsey
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 101.8 points
Profile: An athletic midfielder with elite running capacity and one-touch hands who plays on the inside and outside, Gale captained Western Australia at the National Championships. Performed with a high level of consistency, averaging 28 disposals (nine contested) and five inside 50s to be named among his team’s best in all four matches and was rewarded with All Australian team selection. A courageous player overhead who reads the game exceptionally well, he progressed to play senior football with Claremont in the WAFL, featuring in six matches including the Grand Final, averaging 15 disposals and looking very capable at the level. Is the son of former St Kilda and Fremantle player Mark Gale, who played 84 AFL games, but doesn’t qualify as a father-son selection for either club under father-son rules. His impressive sporting bloodline also includes his grandfather Terry Gale, a former international golfer. Showed his grit and competitiveness at the Draft Combine with his performance in the 2km time trial (6:12) a top-ten finish.

Sam Gayfer
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: Banyule
Date of Birth: 21/05/2008
Height: 194cm
Weapons: Huge leap and contested marking
AFL player comparison: Logan Morris
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 92.9 points
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.

Mitchell Harris
State: South Australia
State League Club: Woodville-West Torrens
Community Club: Kadina
Date of Birth: 01/07/2008
Height: 196cm
Weapons: Marking and one-on-one contest work
AFL player comparison: Callum Wilkie
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 57.2 points
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.

Ethan Herbert
State: South Australia
State League Club: North Adelaide
Community Club: Walkerville
Date of Birth: 01/11/2008
Height: 201cm
Weapons: Mobility and ball-winning capacity
AFL player comparison: Luke Jackson
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 94.9 points
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 hitouts 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 hitouts. 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 hitouts to be among his team’s best players. Finished in the top ten in the running vertical jump with a leap of 91cm at the Draft Combine.

Lachie Hicks
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Western Jets
Community Club: Altona
Date of Birth: 19/01/2008
Height: 184cm
Weapons: Elite work rate and game sense
AFL player comparison: Andrew Brayshaw
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 85.3 points
Profile: A hard running and agile midfielder, Hicks is known for his one-touch hands, ability to read the play and contested ball-winning ability. Has been a ball magnet at all levels throughout the past three years. Won Victoria Metro’s MVP at the 2024 U16 National Championships and was again a very consistent performer for Victoria Metro this year, averaging 17 disposals as part of their midfield rotation. Had a magnificent season with the Western Jets in the Talent League, averaging 29 disposals, five clearances and four tackles, as well as kicking 21 goals in 15 matches. Was duly rewarded with Talent League Team of the Year selection, as well as winning the Jets’ best and fairest award. Really showcased his elite athletic prowess at the Draft Combiner by being ranked first in the agility test (7.80 seconds) and second in the 2km time trial (6:01).

Jordan Knapp
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: North Ringwood
Date of Birth: 05/01/2008
Height: 180cm
Weapons: Clean hands, footy IQ and decision-making
AFL player comparison: Connor MacDonald
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 86.0 points
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
Weapons: Clean hands and vision
AFL player comparison: Hugh McCluggage

Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 87.7 points
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.

Xavier Ladbrook
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Nar Nar Goon
Date of Birth: 16/10/2008
Height: 203cm
Weapons: Aerial ability and composure with ball
AFL player comparison: Harris Andrews
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 57.1 points
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-ten 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).

Koby LeCras
State: Western Australia
State League Club: West Perth
Community Club: Cervantes
Date of Birth: 26/04/2008
Height: 192cm
Weapons: Left-foot kicking and versatility
AFL player comparison: Jordan Dawson
Average player ranking points (Australia U18 team): 100 points
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.

Albert Macgowan
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Brighton Beach
Date of Birth: 27/07/2008
Height: 186cm
Weapons: Running capacity and ball-winning ability
AFL player comparison: Ed Langdon
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 103.0 points
Profile: A relentless winger whose repeat efforts and work rate up and down the ground were real feature throughout the season. Macgowan capped off his year by winning All Australian honours after a dominant National Championships campaign for Victoria Metro, before winning the Sandringham Dragons best and fairest and Talent League Team of the Year selection. His best on ground performance against Victoria Country at Mars Stadium was a highlight, proving him to be a great connector for the title-winning team. At club level he was also a star, averaging 28 disposals in 10 matches for the Dragons, highlighted by a 50m goal on the final siren to clinch an unlikely victory over the Northern Knights in the Quarter Final. Is the son of former SANFL star Rick McGowan, who played more than 200 games for Central District and also was a prominent coach at Sturt and part of Hawthorn’s coaching panel for several seasons. Reminded the scouts of his elite running capacity by finishing first in the 2kn time trial at the national Draft Combine with a time of 5:59.

Wil Malady
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Bairnsdale
Date of Birth: 12/10/2008
Height: 190cm
Weapons: Innate goal sense and marking on the lead
AFL player comparison: Jack Gunston
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 72.9 points
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).

Ethan Matthews
State: NSW-ACT
State League Club: GWS Giants Academy
Community Club: Ingleburn
Date of Birth: 04/09/2008
Height: 186cm
Weapons: Vision, awareness and left-foot kicking
AFL player comparison: Finn Callaghan
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 126.0 points
Profile: A left-footed midfielder who is a prolific ball winner, Matthews uses his elite running ability and footy nous to gather the ball and use it constructively with his effective disposal. A smooth-mover with great vision and composure, he started the season in brilliant form, averaging 35 disposals in three games for the GWS Giants Academy before being among the combined NSW-ACT Academies best player with 28 disposals against South Australia. Won the Hunter Harrison Medal as the best young player from the Allies cohort of states and territories leading into National Championships. Produced one of the best individual games of the National Championships in the Allies’ loss to Victoria Country, racking up 35 disposals, 11 clearances and eight tackles before succumbing to a foot stress fracture in the following game which brought his outstanding season to a premature close. Still took out the GWS Giants Academy’s Player of the Year award at season’s end. A member of the AFL National Academy, he gained benefit playing two matches against VFL opponents in April, as well as also played six matches for the GWS Giants’ VFL team over the past two seasons. Was unable to test at the Draft Combine as he completes recovery from his foot injury.

Mason McGroder
State: NSW-ACT
State League Club: Sydney Swans Academy
Community Club: Maroubra Saints
Date of Birth: 18/09/2008
Height: 195cm
Weapons: Athleticism and ability to break lines
AFL player comparison: Darcy Moore
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 63.5 points
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, they Swans can match a bid for his services at the AFL Draft.

Heath Mellody
State: Western Australia
State League Club: Claremont
Community Club: Wembley Downs
Date of Birth: 27/07/2008
Height: 185cm
Weapons: Game sense and kicking
AFL player comparison: Josh Daicos
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 105.1 points
Profile: A beautifully balanced and classy midfielder, Mellody had an outstanding season at club and representative level. Showcased his high-quality footy smarts and ball use either side of his body right throughout the campaign. During the National Championships he used his elite kicking and decision making to set up the play from defence for Western Australia, as well as running through the midfield at times. Averaged 28 disposals per match to win his team’s MVP award as well as claiming the Larke Medal as the best and fairest player of the carnival. Was also presented the honour of being named captain of the All Australian team. After dominating for Claremont’s colts team earlier in the year, he went on to play six WAFL senior matches, averaging 20 disposals. This included a remarkable performance against the West Coast Eagles in his second match at the level, where he collected 34 disposals (17 contested), 10 clearances and 10 tackles. His senior level experience included playing in four finals and although his team went down to Peel Thunder in the premiership decider, he would have benefited enormously from the opportunity in preparation for next year. Preformed impressively at the Draft Combine with his time of 6:30 for the 2km time trial being a great indication of his endurance.

Caylen Murray
State: Queensland
State League Club: Brisbane Lions Academy
Community Club: Maroochydore
Date of Birth: 03/01/2008
Height: 179cm
Weapons: Reading the game and dash from defence
AFL player comparison: Wayne Milera
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 112.8 points
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.

Marlon Neocleous
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Traralgon
Date of Birth: 26/02/2008
Height: 169cm
Weapons: Footy smarts and goal sense
AFL player comparison: Isaiah Dudley
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 89.7 points
Profile: A creative and exceptionally clever small forward, Neocleous uses his footy nous and power to out position his opponents and is a constant threat near goals. Started the season very impressively with the Gippsland Power and grabbed his opportunity when a late call up to the Australian U18 team presented itself in April, featuring among the best players against Richmond’s VFL team with 19 disposals, nine marks and a clever goal. Mixed his football commitments between club, representative and school football throughout the year, which included starring for Caulfield Grammar in APS football. Was restricted to just two games for Victoria Country during the National Championships due to a back issue but returned to play a prominent role in Gippsland Power’s Talent League premiership team, averaging 16 disposals and five tackles per match, while kicking 12 goals in eight matches. Was unable to test at the Draft Combine as he rehabs from injury.

Jackson Phillips
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Community Club: Langwarrin
Date of Birth: 30/01/2008
Height: 183cm
Weapons: Skills on both sides and goal sense
AFL player comparison: Zac Bailey
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 76.4 points
Profile: A beautifully balanced and skilful winger, Phillips is an outstanding kick on both sides of his body and capable of hitting the scoreboard when he pushes forward. With the ability to play both on the inside and outside, he reads the play very well and was a consistent performer for Victoria Country in the National Championships, averaging 16 disposals and featuring in the best players against the Allies and Western Australia. Had an excellent season for the Dandenong Stingrays at club level, averaging 19 disposals per game and kicking 11 goals to win selection in the Talent League Team of the Year. Was restricted to just the speed and jumps tests at the Draft Combine while hampered by a back injury.

Jack Pickett
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Geelong Falcons
Community Club: Torquay
Date of Birth: 06/03/2008
Height: 193cm
Weapons: Aerial ability and precise kicking
AFL player comparison: Nate Caddy
Average player ranking points (Talent League 2025): 97 points
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.

Clancy Snell
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Mirboo North
Date of Birth: 21/08/2008
Height: 197cm
Weapons: Aerial ability, mobility and kicking
AFL player comparison: Connor O’Sullivan
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 71.3 points
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).

Jake Soutar
State: Western Australia
State League Club: East Perth
Community Club: West Coast
Date of Birth: 22/06/2006
Height: 192cm
Weapons: Intercept marking and dash from defence
AFL player comparison: Zach Guthrie
Average player ranking points (WAFL): 96.0 points
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.

Leo Steed
State: Western Australia
State League Club: Swan Districts
Community Club: Dalyellup Dockers
Date of Birth: 07/03/2008
Height: 176cm
Weapons: One-touch hands and ability to win contested ball
AFL player comparison: Lachie Neale
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 113.2 points
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.

Gus Teixeira
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: East Malvern Knights
Date of Birth: 29/03/2008
Height: 180cm
Weapons: Clean hands and penetrating kicking
AFL player comparison: Finn O’Sullivan
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 114.1 points
Profile: A powerful medium forward/midfielder who is quick and a penetrating kick, Teixeira was an impressive player for the Sandringham Dragons in his bottom-aged year in 2025, giving him a solid foundation for 2026. Despite having a few challenges with illness and injury, he started this year in great form with strong performances in the Talent League, school football and in the Victoria Metro trials. He carried that form into the National Championships, where he averaged 17 disposals (six contested) and 4.2 tackles, displaying his one-touch hands, good vision and game sense to earn All Australian honours. Was particularly impressive against the Allies with 22 disposals and four goals. Averaged 18 disposals for the Sandringham Dragons in a season interrupted by a few niggling injuries but was still rewarded with selection in the Talent League Team of the Year. Did not test at the Draft Combine due to a calf injury.

Archie Van Dyk
State: South Australia
State League Club: South Adelaide
Community Club: Port Noarlunga
Date of Birth: 28/07/2008
Height: 190cm
Weapons: Contested ball-winning ability
AFL player comparison: Clayton Oliver
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 114.6 points
Profile: A prolific ball-winning midfielder, Van Dyk is a stoppage star who uses his clean hands, footy nous and courage to win the ball consistently for his team. Won All-Australian honours at under-16s level in 2024 and continued to impress last year as a bottom-age player. A stress-related back injury curtailed his start to 2026 but he returned with a vengeance. Made it back South Australia’s final game of the National Championships and had an immediate impact with 21 disposals (11 contested) at 76% efficiency against Victoria Country. Played two SANFL senior matches for South Adelaide, where he impressed with his contested ball winning and aerial ability. Was eligible to play in the reserves finals series and dominated in three games, which including winning the Bob Lee Medal as the best player in the drought-breaking Grand Final win over Glenelg after accumulating 34 disposals. Tested exceptionally well in the 2km time trial at the Draft Combine, with his time of 6:11 ranked eighth overall.

Harry Van Hattum
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: St Mary’s
Date of Birth: 01/07/2008
Height: 205cm
Weapons: Size, mobility and ruck craft
AFL player comparison: Max Gawn
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 92.7 points
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 hitouts 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 hitouts 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 95 cm at the Draft Combine.

Cody Walker
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Bendigo Pioneers
Community Club: Echuca
Date of Birth: 26/01/2008
Height: 186cm
Weapons: Sharp competitive edge and contested ball-winning ability
AFL player comparison: Jai Newcombe
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 79.7 points
Profile: A genuine stoppage star, Walker has a great ability to read the play, extract the footy from congestion and then burst away with speed. A powerful midfielder, he played just the three games for the Bendigo Pioneers this year, averaging 30 disposals, before playing the remainder of his club football with Carlton’s VFL team, where he was also impressive and averaged 22 disposals in seven games. Was one of the Australia U18 team’s better players in matches against VFL opponents North Melbourne and Richmond, again winning plenty of contested ball and averaging 23 disposals across the two games to cement his reputation as one of the elite talents in this year’s Draft pool. Recovered from a shoulder injury sustained in Victoria Country’s opening game of the National Championships against the Allies to return with a best on ground performance against South Australia, picking up 35 disposals before toiling hard in the heavy loss to Victoria Metro. Averaged 23.7 disposals (10 contested) and 3.7 clearances at the Championships to win All Australian honours. Is set to join Carlton under the father-son rule at this year’s Draft, with his father Andrew a 202-game player with the Blues. Reminded the scouts of his competitive edge with an eye-catching 2km time trial at the Draft Combine, ranking third with a time of 6:04.

Billy Wigmore
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Western Jets
Community Club: Yarraville Seddon Eagles
Date of Birth: 29/03/2008
Height: 188cm
Weapons: Intercept marking and ball use
AFL player comparison: Bodhi Uwland
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 84.7 points
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.

Noah Williams
State: Victoria Country
Talent League Club: Geelong Falcons
Community Club: St Joseph’s
Date of Birth: 22/01/2008
Height: 177cm
Weapons: Competitiveness one-on-one and precise left-foot kicking
AFL player comparison: Hugo Garcia
Average player ranking points (U18 National Champs): 84.6 points
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.

Brady Wright
State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Werribee VFL
Community Club: Darley
Date of Birth: 19/12/2004
Height: 194cm
Weapons: Marking and reading the cues
AFL player comparison: Jye Amiss
Average player ranking points (VFL): 76.0 points
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.

2026 Telstra AFL Draft prospects player profiles
Smalls
Rucks and tall forwards
Defenders
Small and medium forwards
Midfielders