POSSIBLE No.1 draft pick Andrew McGrath believes he can fill a similar role to Jason Johannisen at AFL level, who he believes has brought the creative defender role back into vogue.

The versatile McGrath, who is one of up to five players vying to be the top pick in this year's NAB AFL Draft, can play at half-back or through the midfield, with his pace and decision-making notable assets.

"The emergence of Jason Johannisen has really helped me," McGrath said on Sunday at the NAB AFL Draft Combine.

"Previously that dashing half-back hasn't really been a massive role, but this year there's been heaps of players go through there (for the Bulldogs).

"The Bulldogs have shown how important that role is. I've idolised him all year, and especially his Grand Final performance was just outstanding."

McGrath, who is a chance to wind up at Essendon with the top pick on draft night, said that mantle would sit comfortably with him.

"I've been asked that by a few Essendon staff in their room today (Sunday)," McGrath said.

"It's something you don't really think about too much. It seems so far away, the draft itself, but it does come with a lot of responsibility and it does entail quite a good player behind the pick.

"There's one of seven (players) who could go at that pick this year and they'd all be worthy candidates.

"In answering your question, it would be a massive honour and a really humbling experience."

AFL talent manager Kevin Sheehan said McGrath would be a deserving No.1 pick, but said the field was open with North Ballarat's Hugh McCluggage also in the frame.

"McGrath was a dominant player for Vic Metro, he co-captained that team and led brilliantly," Sheehan said.

"He's ticked every box. He was best on ground out here in the TAC Cup Grand Final and you can see the character of the young man.

"He's an outstanding young leader, so I've got no issue with he or any of the other young boys we've talked about."

McGrath's consistency across the season has been impressive and he has performed well in big games, evidenced by the 38 disposals and eight clearances he collected on his way to being best afield in the Sandringham Dragons' TAC Cup premiership win.

"My dream at the start of the year and the last couple of years was to get on an AFL list. Whether that's pick one or pick 100, it doesn't matter at the end of the day," McGrath said.

"It's all about making progression and getting out here (on Etihad Stadium) and playing a few games."