While his TAC Cup and Vic Metro teammate Tom Boyd grabs the attention, Apeness has quietly snuck into first-round contention.
Since the NAB AFL Under-18 Championships, Apeness has had a majority of clubs interview him, and a number believe he will have his name read inside the first 25 picks at the Gold Coast on November 21.
Read Michael Apeness' draft profile
Apeness played in the ruck for Vic Metro before Boyd injured his ankle in the third round of the national carnival, which saw him spend more time in attack.
He continued to play in that role for the Ranges in their push to the TAC Cup premiership, and kicked 23 goals in 14 appearances for them this season.
Although clubs have shown a tendency to shy away from drafting ruckmen with early picks in recent seasons, the scarcity of tall options in this year's draft means some may go higher than expected.
It appears unlikely Apeness will be taken any earlier than Fremantle's pick No.17 but a number of other clubs in the next group of selections will be looking to add a big man to their list during the draft, including Essendon.
The Bombers hold pick No.26, and are expected to look at a ruckman at some stage in their drafting, be it the national or rookie intake.
Following David Hille's retirement the Bombers are left with only two ruckmen – Tom Bellchambers and Paddy Ryder – on their list, while Joe Daniher is seen as a long-term forward.
Apeness has improved markedly over the past year, with his marking, goal nous and competitiveness impressing.
He averaged 10 disposals and 19 hit-outs in his five appearances at state level.
