AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan has revealed his top 40 prospects for the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft.

The 2024 Telstra AFL Draft will be held on Wednesday, November 20 and Thursday, November 21. The 2024 Telstra AFL Rookie Draft will follow on Friday, November 22.

Sheehan has produced profiles on all 131 players who attended the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft Combine, with the profiles released in positional groups across the past month.

He has now unveiled his top 40 prospects, which includes each player’s main weapon and a comparison to the AFL player their game is modelled on.

Players are listed in alphabetical order and not ranked.

Keep updated with all the latest news ahead of the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft at the AFL Draft Hub.

Bo Allan

State: Western Australia
State League: Peel Thunder
Community Club: Halls Head
Date of Birth: 16/02/2006
Height: 191cm

A left-foot midfielder and defender with a real competitive edge. Has shown he can play very tight and provide run from defence, as well as having the capability of playing inside or outside in the midfield. He used his contested ball-winning ability and speed to provide consistent drive for Western Australia at the Marsh AFL National Championships, averaging 20 disposals (7.3 contested), 3.7 clearances and six tackles. Was among his team’s better players against both Victoria Metro and Country and was rewarded with All Australian selection. He handled the step up to senior State League level impressively for Peel Thunder, capping off an excellent year as a WAFL premiership player. He played 11 senior matches, averaging 12 disposals and six tackles. Was very impressive at testing at the national Draft Combine, finishing second on the running vertical jump (92cm) and fourth for the agility test (7.94 seconds), while his speed (2.99 seconds on the 20m sprint) was also in the top bracket.
Weapon: Left-foot kick and versatility
AFL player comparison: Jordan Dawson

Harry Armstrong

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Ormond
Date of Birth: 14/06/2006
Height: 195cm

Mobile tall forward who is an outstanding contested mark, has sure hands on the burst and is a difficult player to contain with his speed on the lead. Emerged for Victoria Metro in the Marsh AFL National Championships with three goals against South Australia and then capped it off with five goals against Victoria Country in the title-decider to win All Australian honours. A long and accurate left-foot kick, he continued to show his match-winning ability with the Sandringham Dragons, kicking 27 goals in 10 matches, including four in their Grand Final win against the GWV Rebels. Capped a breakout year by earning Coates Talent League Team of the Year honours. His result in the agility test at the national Draft Combine was outstanding for a player of his type, being ranked seventh with a time of 8.13 seconds.
Weapon: Aerial ability and left-foot goalkicking
AFL player comparison: Jeremy Cameron

Levi Ashcroft

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: St Kilda City
Date of Birth: 18/12/2006
Height: 179cm

A midfielder/forward who uses his footy nous and clean hands to create for his teammates. Also has an elite work rate and is an excellent decision-maker with ball in hand. Has a remarkable underage record, being a triple Coates Talent League premiership player with the Sandringham Dragons as well as a back-to-back All Australian. Was dominant in the National Championships win over the Allies and also produced strong performances against South Australia and Western Australia. Averaged 25.5 disposals at 73 per cent efficiency to lead Victoria Metro to the title and added to his outstanding year by averaging 31.5 disposals across two matches for the Australia U18 team against VFL opponents Coburg and Footscray, being awarded the best player medal against the latter. Finished his underage career with a stellar performance in the Coates Talent League Grand Final, picking up 29 disposals and kicking three goals to be one of the best afield in the Dragons’ win over the GWV Rebels before winning his team’s best and fairest award. Is the son of Brisbane Lions triple premiership player Marcus and has formally agreed to join the Lions as a father-son selection where he will join his brother and 2024 Norm Smith Medal winner, Will. Did not test at the Draft Combine after having a shoulder procedure at season’s end.
Weapon: Game awareness and footy smarts
AFL player comparison: Caleb Serong

Joe Berry

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Murray Bushrangers
Community Club: Wangaratta
Date of Birth: 18/04/2006
Height: 181cm

A crafty left-footed small forward who has proved to be one of the most dangerous players of his type in this year’s Draft pool. Presents on the lead with real speed, works hard up the ground to win the ball, has elite one-touch hands at ground level and innate goal sense. Booted an equal-high nine goals during the National Championships and averaged 13.2 disposals and three tackles to win All Australian honours. Was also star for the Murray Bushrangers during the Coates Talent League season, averaging 14 disposals and kicking 27 goals, which included four bags of four. Was a joint winner of the Bushrangers’ best and fairest award and was selected in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year.
Weapon: Dynamic left-foot kick and goal sense
AFL player comparison: Ben Keays

Hugh Boxshall

State: Western Australia
State League Club: Claremont
Community Club: Swanbourne
Date of Birth: 11/07/2006
Height: 187cm

Medium midfielder with a real competitive edge. Wins the contested ball with his clean hands and uses his vision and awareness to set up his teammates. Strong overhead and an aggressive tackler, he had a real positive impact for Western Australia when he returned from injury, playing the last three games of the National Championships where he averaged 18.7 disposals (eight contested) and was among his side’s best against South Australia and Victoria Country. Finished the year in outstanding form at Colts level, being among the best afield with 30 disposals in Claremont’s Grand Final-winning team. Was outstanding in testing at the state Draft Combine in Perth, ranking second on the 2km time trial (6:08), third on the agility test (7.98 seconds) and fourth on the running vertical jump (86cm).
Weapon: Ability to win the contested ball and clean hands
AFL player comparison: Jye Caldwell

Ben Camporeale

State: South Australia
State League Club: Glenelg
Community Club: Brighton Districts & Old Scholars
Date of Birth: 21/07/2006
Height: 186cm

A midfielder/defender who can play both inside and outside and use his athleticism and footy smarts to be a prolific ball winner. Used his hard running and contested ball-winning ability to open up the play and drive South Australia forward at the National Championships, where he was model of consistency in averaging 26.8 disposals (10 contested), 4.5 clearances and 3.8 tackles to win his side’s MVP award as well as All Australian honours. He also handled the step up to senior level comfortably, impressing for the Australia U18s team against VFL opponents earlier in the year. Dominated in the SANFL U18 competition, averaging 31.7 disposals in six matches to be crowned a joint winner of the McCallum Tomkins Medal as the competition’s best and fairest player. Along with twin brother Lucas, he is eligible to join Carlton as a father-son selection in this year’s Draft as the son of former star Scott, who played 233 of his 252 AFL games for the Blues.
Weapon: Hard running and ball winning ability
AFL player comparison: Jarrod Berry

Angus Clarke

State: South Australia
State League Club: Glenelg
Community Club: East Gambier
Date of Birth: 02/11/2006
Height: 189cm

Medium defender who excels in the air to intercept opposition forward thrusts and provides consistent rebound with his pinpoint kicking. Impressed for South Australia at the National Championships, averaging 17 disposals at 79 per cent efficiency, and was among his team’s best players against the Allies and Victoria Country. Played 10 games at under-18 level for Glenelg, where he averaged 16.7 disposals and five marks. His endurance and competitiveness were outstanding at the Draft Combine, with his 2km time trial effort of 6:16 in challenging windy conditions ranked third overall. Commuted weekly from the family farm at Mt Gambier to pursue his football goals.
Weapon: Intercept marking and ball use
AFL player comparison: Luke Ryan

Jesse Dattoli

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community Club: Heidelberg
Date of Birth: 07/08/2006
Height: 179cm

A crafty small forward/midfielder who can mark well overhead for his size and excel in big moments for his team. Is also a tough and courageous player with elite skills, including being an excellent set shot for goal. Was an important member of Victoria Metro’s title-winning team at the National Championships, averaging 15 disposals and seven marks, as well as kicking three goals in his four matches. Also had an excellent year with the Northern Knights in the Coates Talent League, averaging 23 disposals (11 contested), four clearances and 1.7 goals a game.
Weapon: Elite kicking skills
AFL player comparison: Dylan Moore

Sam Davidson

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Richmond VFL
Community: St Kevins
Date of Birth: 13/12/2001
Height: 190cm

Exciting lead-up forward who has had an amazing journey to become a Draft contender after a breakout year for Richmond in the VFL which concluded with him winning the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal as the VFL’s most promising player. A medical student, he has spent recent seasons playing community football in the Gippsland and Sunraysia regions after playing junior football at Ormond. He was encouraged to test his talent at State League level and flourished this season, averaging 14 disposals and four marks and kicking 26 goals in 17 matches to share the Tigers’ best and fairest award. Kicked a season-high six goals against the Northern Bullants in Round 15. Showed a very impressive balance of high-level speed and endurance at the state Draft Combine in Melbourne, recording 2.98 seconds for the 20m sprint and 6:12 on the 2km time trial.
Weapon: Aerial ability and work rate
AFL player comparison: Bayley Fritsch

Hamish Davis

State: Western Australia
State League Club: Claremont
Community Club: Subiaco
Date of Birth: 02/05/2006
Height: 190cm

An athletic medium forward who presents well as a marking target and uses his power to split packs and his endurance to outwork his opponents. Had a progressive year, dominating early at Colts level for Claremont, where he averaged 23 disposals and kicked 14 goals in nine matches, as well as being Western Australia’s most dangerous forward at the National Championships. He averaged 14.5 disposals and 1.8 goals at the Championships, including kicking 3.3 against Victoria Country in his best performance. Went on to play seven matches at senior level with Claremont, which included an impressive performance of four goals and 21 disposals against East Fremantle in Round 22. Was selected in the WAFL Colts Team of the Year and topped his breakout year winning the Mel Whinnen Medal for his best on ground performance in Claremont’s Colts Grand Fina victory, which gave the club back-to-back premierships. His 6:18 seconds for the 2km time trial ranked fifth at the national Draft Combine.
Weapon: Endurance and goal sense
AFL player comparison: Mitch Owens

Alex Dodson

State: South Australia
State League Club: Sturt
Community Club: Payneham
Date of Birth: 15/06/2006
Height: 201cm

A developing ruckman who is extremely athletic and competitive. His mobility is a great weapon in winning the ball around the ground, while his vertical leap and reach are both assets at stoppages. Missed the opening game of the National Championships due to basketball commitments after winning a gold medal playing basketball for Australia at the Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Germany. He then emerged as the number one ruckman in the Championships with his performances in three matches for South Australia, averaging 17.3 disposals, 3.0 marks, 3.7 clearances and 19.7 hitouts to earn All Australian honours.  Played nine matches for Sturt in at under-18 level and was again dominant, averaging 21 disposals, four marks and 25 hitouts.
Weapon: Mobility and competitiveness
AFL player comparison: Brodie Grundy

Sid Draper

State: South Australia
State League Club: South Adelaide
Community Club: Willunga
Date of Birth: 05/07/2006
Height: 182cm

A powerful midfielder with line-breaking speed and elite agility which enable him to step out of congestion to open the game from stoppages. Showed resilience to overcome an injury-interrupted start to this season after battling stress fractures in his shins. Returned just before the National Championships and was able to perform well, averaging 21 disposals (eight contested) at 76.2 per cent efficiency, along with 3.8 clearances to become a back-to-back All Australian at under-18 level. Continued his good form at senior level, playing the final six matches of the year and averaging 22.2 disposals (12 contested), five clearances and six tackles to show his top end talent. Was the winner of the 2023 AFL Life Members Scholarship following the likes of recent winners Lachie Whitfield, Sam Walsh, Hayden Young and Harley Reid.
Weapon: Speed and agility
AFL player comparison: Connor Rozee

Jonty Faull

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: GWV Rebels
Community Club: Redan
Date of Birth: 01/02/2006
Height: 195cm

A tall forward who is agile and strong overhead with his vice-like grip. He recovered from a back complaint which interrupted his start to the year to play some outstanding football for the GWV Rebels and Victoria Country at club and representative levels. Loves the contest and attacks the ball aggressively in the air and at ground level. Finished the year kicking 27 goals in 11 matches for the Rebels, including five against the Oakleigh Chargers in the preliminary final, before winning selection in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year.
Weapon: Contested marking
AFL player comparison: Jesse Hogan

Tom Gross

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Kew Rovers
Date of Birth: 15/09/2006
Height: 181cm

A medium midfielder and forward with a sharp competitive edge and burst out of stoppage who can play on the outside as well as the inside. Impressed for the Australian U18 team against Coburg early in the year, recording 21 touches in a forward and midfield role which gave him a sound preparation for the National Championships. Was outstanding on the wing for Victoria Metro against South Australia and was one of the most consistent players throughout the Championships for the title winners, averaging 20 disposals, 3.5 tackles and three clearances to earn All Australian honours. Continued to show his potential in eight games for the Oakleigh Chargers in the Coates Talent League, averaging 22.3 disposals (eight contested) as he shared his playing commitments between club and school football for Trinity Grammar.
Weapon: Contested ball winning
AFL player comparison: Matt Rowell

Oliver Hannaford

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: GWV Rebels
Community Club: Sandhurst
Date of Birth: 01/09/2006
Height: 180cm

A versatile player who can play back, midfield or forward. Starred in the latter role late in the season for the GWV Rebels, kicking five goals against the Oakleigh Chargers in Round 18 and then a bag of six in the qualifying final against the Geelong Falcons. He represented Victoria Country in three matches at the National Championships and was selected in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year after averaging 17 disposals and four tackles per game for the Rebels and kicking 21 goals in 17 matches. Finished off his year being the Rebels best player in their Grand Final loss to the Sandringham Dragons, picking up 24 disposals with his aggressive edge and vitality prominent in his performance.
Weapon: Game sense and competitiveness
AFL player comparison: Jack Higgins

Will Hayes

State: Western Australia
State League Club: Claremont
Community Club: Subiaco
Date of Birth: 16/05/2006
Height: 180cm

A wingman or small forward who has pace and a neat step through traffic. Although lightly-framed, he is a beautifully balanced player with a touch of class and distributes the ball neatly and with penetration on both feet. He played all four matches for Western Australia at the National Championships, averaging 13 disposals at 75 per cent efficiency and was among his team’s best against both South Australia and Victoria Metro.  Finished the season in style by becoming a dual premiership player with Claremont at Colts level. Tested extremely well at the Draft Combine, ranking third on the agility test (7.85 seconds) and 2km time trial (6:16) and producing a sound 3.00 seconds on the 20m sprint.
Weapon: Elite kicking on both feet
AFL player comparison: Lachie Sholl

Taj Hotton

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Hampton Rovers
Date of Birth: 17/06/2006
Height: 182cm

A high half forward who showed slices of real talent when he started 2024 in sensational form, including having 32 disposals and kicking four goals against the Oakleigh Chargers in Round 2 of the Coates Talent League season. He then showed real class for the Australia U18 team against VFL outfit Coburg, logging 18 disposals and kicking two goals to be among the best players. Unfortunately, he suffered an ACL injury at training before the National Championships, which ruled him out for the remainder of the season. However, his talent and potential were obvious early in the year and AFL clubs will be closely monitoring his rehabilitation ahead of the Draft. He is the son of former Collingwood and Carlton player Trent Hotton, although he is not eligible as a father-son to either club.
Weapon: Speed and goal sense
AFL player comparison: Shai Bolton

Cooper Hynes

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Community Club: Bonbeach
Date of Birth: 28/02/2006
Height: 190cm

Medium midfielder/forward who is a powerful contested ball winner around stoppages and dangerous when he goes forward with his innate goal sense and strong overhead mark. He had an exceptional year with the Dandenong Stingrays in the Coates Talent League, averaging 24 disposals (11 contested), 4.7 clearances and kicking 23 goals in 15 matches. Finished runner-up in the Morrish Medal and also for the Stingrays’ best and fairest award, as well as being selected in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year. Carried that form into the National Championships for Victoria Country, averaging 17 disposals at 79 per cent efficiency and averaging a goal a game against the best young players nationally.
Weapon: Contested ball and goal sense
AFL player comparison: Josh Dunkley

Lachie Jaques

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Geelong Falcons
Community Club: St Mary’s
Date of Birth: 01/06/2006
Height: 185cm

A medium defender who showed the great ability to read cues to intercept mark then use the ball with precision on the rebound. He averaged 16.2 disposals at 78.5 per cent efficiency and 4.8 marks for Victoria Country at the National Championships and won All Australian honours, with his composure a feature of his play. Was a dominant player as captain of the Geelong Falcons, averaging 23 disposals in 14 matches. Capped his year by earning selection in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year and claiming the Falcons’ best and fairest award.
Weapon: Intercept marking and ball use
AFL player comparison: Bailey Dale

Isaac Kako

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Calder Cannons
Community Club: Northern Saints
Date of Birth: 07/03/2006
Height: 176cm

Small forward who is dynamic with his speed and lateral movement being difficult to contain for opponents. Works extremely hard to create opportunities for his team and is extremely unselfish. Has innate goal sense and booted 28 majors in Talent Pathway competitions this year, including three goals in an impressive display for Victoria Metro in the National Championships title-decider against Victoria Country. Averaged 14.5 disposals (50 per cent contested) and kicked eight goals to be a star in the Championships and was rewarded with All Australian honours. Was also a consistent performer for the Calder Cannons in the Coates Talent League, averaging 19 disposals per game and earning Team of the Year selection. His three goals and 29 disposals against the Gold Coast Suns Academy was a standout performance. His parents hail from Iraq and he is eligible to join Essendon as a Next Generation Academy selection.
Weapon: Agility and goal sense
AFL player comparison: Tyson Stengle

Sam Lalor

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: GWV Rebels
Community Club: Bacchus Marsh
Date of Birth: 30/08/2006
Height: 188cm

A powerful midfielder/forward who explodes out of stoppages and is dangerous when forward with his elite aerial ability. Was an All Australian at under-16 level in 2022 and followed up with an extremely promising bottom-aged year at under-18 level before having to overcome a number of injury challenges this year. Missed the early part of the year with a back issue and then the latter part of the year with hamstring injuries but still demonstrated his enormous potential in four Coates Talent League matches with the GWV Rebels, averaging 23 disposals and 5.8 marks. His performance against the Murray Bushrangers in Round 12 when he picked up 34 disposals and eight marks gave a glimpse of his talent. Was able to play three matches for Victoria Country in the National Championships, featuring in the best players with three goals from 16 disposals against the Allies.
Weapon: Power and overhead marking
AFL player comparison: Cameron Rayner

Harvey Langford

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Community Club: Mount Martha
Date of Birth: 15/03/2006
Height: 191cm

A left-footed tall midfielder who had an outstanding season at club and representative levels, displaying a remarkably high level of elite performance and resilience to propel him into early Draft conversations. Was the joint winner of the Larke Medal as the best and fairest player of the National Championships, averaging 25.5 disposals (7.7 contested), 6.2 marks and 6.2 clearances for Victoria Country and was also rewarded with his team’s MVP award as well as All Australian honours. He was also consistently excellent for the Dandenong Stingrays, averaging 26 disposals, five clearances and five tackles to win their best and fairest award and be named in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year.  His 6:24 on the 2km time trial at the Draft Combine showcased his endurance and competitive edge.
Weapon: Poise and damaging left-foot kick
AFL player comparison: Scott Pendlebury

Xavier Lindsay

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Inverloch-Kongwak/Leongatha
Date of Birth: 03/08/2006
Height: 183cm

A left-footed medium defender and midfielder who displayed enormous footy nous in reading the cues to win the ball before making good decisions when distributing. A neat kick and aggressive tackler, he also showed good natural speed and agility. Was a standout at club and representative level and finished the National Championships in outstanding fashion, racking up 30 disposals against Victoria Metro which cemented All Australian honours. Starred for the Gippsland Power in the Coates Talent League, where he averaged 23 disposals across 12 matches to win the Morrish Medal as the competition’s best and fairest player. A PCL injury in the final home and away game brought a premature end to his season but he is expected to have fully recovered by December.
Weapon: Versatility and precise left-foot kick
AFL player comparison: Liam Duggan

Leo Lombard

State: Queensland
State League Club: Gold Coast Suns Academy
Community Club: Broadbeach
Date of Birth: 05/10/2006
Height: 179cm

An explosive ball-winning midfielder who is super competitive and energetic. He was already a premiership winning player at VFL level with the Gold Coast Suns coming into his Draft season. Further developed his game this year, which was showcased during the National Championships, where he was joint winner of the Larke Medal as the best and fairest player and also claimed the Allies’ MVP award. Averaged 26.2 disposals (10.5 contested), 4.8 clearances, 4.5 tackles per game and add All Australian honours to his impressive resume. Also played another eight VFL matches for the Suns, averaging 17.5 disposals. Is a member of the Gold Coast Suns Academy meaning they can match a bid on Draft night. Showcased his elite power at the national Draft Combine, recording the fastest time in the agility test (7.81 seconds), as well as being ranked second in the 20m sprint (2.85 seconds).
Weapon: Speed, agility and tenaciousness
AFL player comparison: Touk Miller

Sam Marshall

State: Queensland
State League Club: Brisbane Lions Academy/Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Kawana Park Eagles/Old Melburnians
Date of Birth: 19/01/2006
Height: 185cm

A midfielder from the Sunshine Coast in Queensland who relocated to Victoria for school a couple of years ago. Has ticked off every box in terms of performance in his Draft year. He used his hard running and football nous to accumulate the ball and provide consistent drive in all four matches for the Allies during the National Championships, where he averaged 27 disposals (9.8 contested), four clearances and 3.8 tackles to earn All Australian honours. As a member of the Brisbane Lions Academy, he was able to play a couple of VFL matches for the Lions and acquitted himself well, as he did for the Australia U18 team in their two matches against Coburg and Footscray. Capped off an outstanding year by winning the best on the ground medal in the Coates Talent League Grand Final after collecting 28 disposals and kicking two goals to secure another premiership win for the Sandringham Dragons.
Weapon: High-speed running and ball-winning ability
AFL player comparison: Nic Martin

Christian Moraes

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: Knox
Date of Birth: 08/11/2006
Height: 183cm

A running machine who is prepared to work deep into defence as well as push forward to create options for his team. Also has clean hands and is composed with the ball. Had an impressive season for the Eastern Ranges in the Coates Talent League, averaging 23.8 disposals and kicking 18 goals in 12 matches to finish joint runner up in their best and fairest award and earn Coates Talent League Team of the Year selection. Continued his high-level output by averaging 21 disposals for Victoria Metro in a star-studded midfield group, with his best performance coming against South Australia where he amassed 22 disposals and kicked two goals.
Weapon: Clean hands and power running
AFL player comparison: Noah Anderson

Noah Mraz

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Dandenong Stingrays
Community Club: Narre North Foxes
Date of Birth: 20/02/2006
Height: 198cm

A mobile tall defender with an aerial presence, he had a taste of National Championships football as a bottom-age player last year and certainly held his own in the match against Victoria Metro. Started this season full of promise, averaging 19.5 disposals and four marks in his first two matches with the Dandenong Stingrays in the Coates Talent League before injuring his ankle late in the Australia U18 match against Coburg in April. The injury ruled him out for the remainder of the year. Despite being sidelined for almost the entire season, his promise shown as a bottom-aged player and form early this year was enough for clubs to monitor his recovery very closely to further evaluate his potential.
Weapon: Intercept marking
AFL player comparison: Sam Taylor

Harrison Oliver

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: St Bedes/Mentone
Date of Birth: 15/06/2006
Height: 181cm

A composed and hard running medium defender who helped set the play up for Victoria Metro with his great decision making and precise left-foot kicking. He averaged 16.2 disposals at 83 per cent efficiency and 3.2 tackles across four matches at the National Championships, with his speed also a weapon in breaking the lines. Was rewarded with All Australian honours and capped a great year with a premiership win for the Sandringham Dragons, where he was also selected in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year.
Weapon: Speed and dynamic left-foot kicking
AFL player comparison: Josh Kelly

Finn O’Sullivan

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Koroit
Date of Birth: 30/05/2006
Height: 182cm

A classy midfielder who was one of the dominant players of his age level over the past two years. His elite use of the ball, speed and lateral movement through the midfield are outstanding weapons. Claimed the best and fairest award at the 2022 AFL National Development Championships U16 Boys and followed it up with selection in the 2023 AFL National Championships U18 Boys All Australian side as a bottom-age player. Suffered a thumb injury in his first game of the 2024 Coates Talent League season which began a frustrating run of injuries that restricted his ability to consistently put games together. Was only able to play eight games at club and representative level this year, including two games for Victoria Country at the National Championships and one with Richmond’s VFL team. The last of his matches for the Oakleigh Chargers was his most productive, having 20 disposals and kicking two goals to be his team’s best player in its four-point preliminary final defeat to the GWV Rebels. Tested impressively at the Draft Combine, with his time of 8.14 seconds on the agility test ranked eighth, while he also produced eye-catching performances in the 20m sprint (2.99 seconds) and 2km time trial (6:28).
Weapon: Step through traffic and ball-winning ability
AFL player comparison: Chad Warner

Murphy Reid

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: South Melbourne Districts
Date of Birth: 30/07/2006
Height: 181cm

A midfielder-forward who has speed to burn which allows him to burst away from congestion and use the ball with precision. Reads the game exceptionally well, is a prolific ball winner and creative and innovative when in congestion. Was outstanding at the National Championships, averaging 24.5 disposals (9.2 contested), 3.2 clearances and 3.2 tackles across the four matches which included dominant displays against South Australia and the Allies. Was rewarded by winning Victoria Metro’s MVP award as well as All Australian honours. Was also a star at club level, averaging 21 disposals and kicking 14 goals in 10 matches for the Sandringham Dragons. Capped the year with his second Coates Talent League premiership and selection in the Team of the Year.
Weapon: Power running and creativity
AFL player comparison: Sam Walsh

Jobe Shanahan

State: NSW/ACT
State League Club: Bendigo Pioneers
Community Club: Moama
Date of Birth: 02/08/2006
Height: 195cm

A mobile tall forward with a vice-like grip overhead who continued to develop at multiple levels this year. Represented the Allies during the National Championships and was a real presence up forward, taking the most contested marks of any player during the tournament. Was at his very best in the Allies’ thrilling two-point loss to Victoria Country when he amassed 16 disposals, nine marks (four contested) and kicked three goals, which helped him secure All Australian honours. He kicked 42 goals in 20 matches in the Talent Pathway this season, including 11 goals in three matches for Essendon’s VFL team. Topped off an outstanding year by winning selection in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year. Also tested soundly at the Draft Combine with a strong 6:39 for the 2km time trial and leaping 86cm in the running vertical jump.
Weapon: Aerial ability and goal kicking
AFL player comparison: Charlie Curnow

Thomas Sims

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Northern Knights
Community: Montmorency
Date of Birth: 12/05/2006
Height: 199cm

A tall forward or ruckman whose ability in the air separates him from others. Uses his natural spring and strong grip to pull in marks and follows up well at ground level. Had an impressive season with the Northern Knights, averaging 11.5 disposals and 4.2 marks and kicking 23 goals in 13 matches. This included kicking seven goals and taking 10 marks in a best-on-ground performance against the Oakleigh Chargers in Round 6. He was also part of Victoria Metro’s title-winning team at the National Championships, with his three-goal effort against Western Australia his most productive performance.
Weapon: Marking and mobility
AFL player comparison: Luke Jackson

Josh Smillie

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Eastern Ranges
Community Club: Park Orchards
Date of Birth: 17/05/2006
Height: 195cm

An athletic and versatile player who is capable of playing in the midfield, down back or as a hit-up marking forward. A one-touch player who reads the game exceptionally well wherever he plays, he averaged 26 disposals and kicked 16 goals in 12 matches with the Eastern Ranges this year which included logging 34 disposals and kicking three goals against the Brisbane Lions Academy. Won the Ranges’ best and fairest and earned selection in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year. A member of the Marsh AFL National Academy, he was given the honour of captaining the Australian U18 team in its matches against Coburg and Footscray and was among the better players in both games, averaging 23.5 disposals in a midfield and defensive role. Played a variety of roles for Victoria Metro in their National Championships title-winning team, averaging 18.8 disposals and 5.8 clearances. His 6:38 for the 2km time trial and 8.39 seconds on the agility test at the Draft Combine were both good results for a player of his type.
Weapon: Ball-winning ability and versatility
AFL player comparison: Tom Green

Jagga Smith

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Richmond
Date of Birth: 28/01/2006
Height: 182 cm

A lively and creative midfielder who is a prolific ball-winner on the inside with elite distribution by hand and foot. He showed the rare ability to step through congested situations and maintain his composure at all levels this year, including at VFL level for Richmond. He averaged 29.2 disposals (13.8 contested) at 82 per cent efficiency and 6.8 clearances for Victoria Metro at the National Championships to finish third in the Larke Medal voting. Was also rewarded with the honour of being named captain of the All Australian team. Played a total of 21 games for the year, which comprised two appearances for the Australia U18 team, three for Richmond’s VFL side, 12 for the Oakleigh Chargers as well as four for Victoria Metro. He picked up 650 disposals at an average of 31 per game, which highlighted his amazingly consistent elite performance. Was a runaway winner of the Chargers best and fairest and tested soundly at the national Draft Combine, recording 3.04 seconds on the 20m sprint, 8.5 seconds on the agility test and 6:27 on the 2km time trial.
Weapon: Ball-winning ability and agility
AFL player comparison: Zak Butters

Logan Smith

State: NSW/ACT
State League Club: GWS Giants Academy
Community Club: Queanbeyan
Date of Birth: 24/09/2006
Height: 204cm

Mobile ruckman whose craft around stoppages and ability to direct the ball to his team’s advantage is a real weapon. Had an impressive development year which included dominating for the GWS Giants Academy early in the Coates Talent League season. Then averaged 10.5 disposals (seven contested) and 21.5 hitouts for the Allies at the National Championships to win All Australian honours. Played seven matches for the GWS Giants in the VFL, which included having 19 disposals and five marks against the Sydney Swans in Round 13. Was awarded the GWS Giants’ Academy Player of the Year.
Weapon: Ruck craft and competitiveness
AFL player comparison: Rowan Marshall

Alixzander Tauru

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Gippsland Power
Community Club: Warragul Industrials
Date of Birth: 16/11/2006
Height: 193cm

Exciting tall defender whose spectacular ability in the air propelled him into the Victoria Country team for its final three matches of the National Championships after not being selected in the initial squad earlier in the year. A graceful mover over the ground, he also showed versatility in playing in the midfield and forward with the Gippsland Power in the Coates Talent League, averaging 14.5 disposals and six marks in 12 matches and earning Team of the Year selection. Was ultra impressive in all testing at the national Draft Combine. Recorded the best running vertical jump (94cm) of all participants, while his times of 3.00 seconds on the 20m sprint, 8.20 seconds on the agility test and 6:36 on the 2km time trail provided clear indications of his elite athleticism.
Weapon: Aerial ability and versatility
AFL player comparison: Mac Andrew

Luke Trainor

State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Sandringham Dragons
Community Club: Old Brighton Grammarians
Date of Birth: 10/04/2006
Height: 194cm

An athletic tall defender who is strong overhead and shows dash and composure with ball in hand on the rebound. Showed he’s capable of playing a more negating role deep during the National Championships and even went forward in the last moments of the title-decider to kick the winning goal. Averaged 19.8 disposals at 77 per cent efficiency and 5.8 marks across the four matches for Victoria Metro and was rewarded with All Australian honours. Earlier in the year he was awarded the best player medal for the Australia U18 team in their showcase match against Coburg. Was dominant in five matches for the Sandringham Dragons in the Coates Talent League, averaging 20 disposals and six marks, before being injured with a shoulder in the qualifying final. He was rewarded for his outstanding overall form in the pathway with selection in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year. He is the grandson of Geelong and North Melbourne legend Doug Wade and former North Melbourne president Tony Trainor and nephew of AFL commissioner Gab Trainor.
Weapon: Athleticism and ball use
AFL player comparison: Darcy Moore

Tobie Travaglia

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Bendigo Pioneers
Community Club: Sandhurst
Date of Birth: 26/10/2006
Height: 187cm

An athletic defender who had an outstanding year at club and representative levels. His ability to intercept using his closing speed aerial presence and competitiveness stood out across the season. Was a key in setting the play up for Victoria Country during the National Championships, averaging 21.8 disposals at 85 per cent efficiency and 6.2 marks. Produced dominant games against South Australia and Victoria Metro and placed fifth in the Larke Medal with 15 votes, while also earning All Australian selection. Also produced strong displays against senior opposition when playing with the Australia U18 team and Carlton’s VFL outfit. That came off the back of strong form for the Bendigo Pioneers in the Coates Talent League, where he averaged 24 disposals in 12 matches to earn Team of the Year selection. Finished second in the 2km time trial at the national Draft Combine with a time of 6:13.
Weapon: Aerial ability and consistency
AFL player comparison: Will Day

Jack Whitlock

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Murray Bushrangers
Community Club: Shepparton Bears
Date of Birth: 16/05/2006
Height: 200cm

A wiry tall forward who is super athletic, has good hands out in front and overhead, an excellent ability to read the game and consistently performs at a high level. Had an extremely promising year at both Coates Talent League and representative level. He averaged 16.4 disposals and five marks per game, as well as kicking 25 goals, for the Murray Bushrangers, as well as averaging 14.8 disposals and five marks for Victoria Country. He was added to the Australia U18 team as an injury replacement in the match against Coburg and showed slices of his enormous potential. He is the twin of a fellow Draft hopeful Matt. His running vertical jump of 91cm ranked fourth at the national Draft Combine and his time of 6:39 in the 2km time trial in windy conditions showcased his competitive edge and endurance.
Weapon: Overhead marking and athleticism
AFL player comparison: Max King

Matt Whitlock

State: Victoria Country
State League Club: Murray Bushrangers
Community Club: Shepparton Bears
Date of Birth: 16/05/2006
Height: 198cm

A tall defender who can also go forward and have an impact, which he did on numerous occasions this year. Athletic and lightly framed, he is a good player one-on-one and reads the game well to take intercept marks when in defence. Received a late call-up as an injury replacement player to represent the Australia U18 team in their second match against VFL team the Footscray Bulldogs, where he showed some exciting signs of things to come. Displayed enormous potential at both ends of the ground for Victoria Country in the National Championships, as well as with the Murray Bushrangers in the Coates Talent League, averaging14 disposals and five marks in both competitions as well as kicking 29 goals, including two bags of five. Was rewarded with selection in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year. His running vertical jump of 90 cm at the national Draft Combine was impressive and ranked sixth overall, with his speed (3.05 seconds on the 20m sprint) also very good for a key position prospect.
Weapon: Versatility and aerial ability
AFL player comparison: Ben King

Kevin Sheehan’s 2024 Telstra AFL Draft top prospects

Midfielders
Tall forwards and rucks
Tall defenders
Small and medium defenders
Small and medium forwards