The key forward entered the NAB AFL Under-18 championships as a possible No.1 draftee but more likely the No.2 pick. Although he did not make the All-Australian team, he remains high in the pecking order, but probably now a top-five pick.
Jesse Crichton (Tasmania)
Another who recruiters continue to rate highly despite his missing out on All-Australian honours. Most still believe the AIS/AFL Academy graduate is Tasmania's best prospect, although Ryan Harwood has his fans.
Ben Cunnington (Vic Country)
One of Vic Country's best and an Under-18 All-Australian. The versatile prospect has been likened to Brad Sewell, and averaged 20 disposals per match during the U18 champs. His ferocious attack on the ball and hard-running attributes keeps him right in the mix for the first round of November’s NAB AFL Draft.
Jack Fitzpatrick (Vic Metro)
Versatile for an athlete who stands at 201cm, and his flexibility makes him an attractive proposition. Can fill a key position at either end of the ground and should be a first-round pick at this point.
Jordan Gysberts (Vic Metro)
Modern-day midfielder who has been likened to emerging versatile Demon Jack Grimes.
Kane Lucas (Western Australia)
Joint vice-captain of WA’s unbeaten U18 team, and named on the wing in the All-Australian squad. He also spent time for WA across half-forward, adding a dimension to his game, which some recruiters believe enhanced his status.
Dustin Martin (Vic Country)
An onballer whose fortunes appear to have risen after an outstanding series of midfield performances in the U18 champs. Averaged 21 disposals per match in the champs.
Andrew Moore (Vic Metro)
The younger brother of Richmond defender Kelvin has been likened to Swan Ryan O'Keefe. Still a strong prospect and was particularly impressive early in the U18 champs.
Anthony Morabito (Western Australia)
His status has grown, particularly after his best-on-ground performance against South Australia at Subiaco Oval. Named All-Australian, the run-and-carry midfielder is now regarded as a top five selection. Top three is not out of the question.
Matthew Panos (South Australia)
Key forwards are never a dime a dozen in any draft and are again thin on the ground in this year's draft pool, which is why Panos pushes into the top 16. Kicked 14 goals in the championships, including five in one match.
Gary Rohan (Vic Country)
This time last year, Rohan was a full-back with Victorian country club Cobden. Now the exciting, high-leaping, hard-at-it half-forward is an All-Australian and appears to be a top 10 draft pick following his outstanding championships. He is one to watch.
Tom Scully (Vic Metro)
Came into the champs with the No.1 draft tag and finished them with the same mantle. Although South Australian Jack Trengove looms as a genuine challenger, it is hard to imagine the hard-running midfielder’s name not being the first called out in November.
Koby Stevens (Vic Country)
A versatile midfielder/flanker who impressed in the carnival despite missing out on NAB AFL All-Australian honours. He was Vic Country's best against Tasmania, for example. An AIS/AFL Academy graduate
Luke Tapscott (South Australia)
One recruiter has likened Tapscott's body mould to that of Leigh Matthews. The powerful midfielder/forward further enhanced his status with nine goals and 30 inside 50s for SA. But it is his disposal efficiency and beautiful foot skills that keep him right up here.
Jack Trengove (South Australia)
After winning 31 disposals in SA's first match, Trengove continued to go from strength to strength. The hard-at-it midfielder/forward is rated so highly that he is an outside chance for No.1 pick, firming for No.2 and top five at worse.
Nathan Vardy (Vic Country)
One of the leading rucks in this year's draft, the 198cm tall is a genuine ruck prospect. Although he was pipped for an All-Australian guernsey by South Australian James Craig, he still looms as a first-rounder at this stage.
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the clubs or the AFL.
