AFL Draft Recap: Clubs Reveal New Talents
Last updated on May 30, 2025 at 06:56 am
Posted on May 29, 2025 at 10:47 am
The AFL Draft brought a mix of expected selections and unexpected omissions. West Coast and Carlton secured state league standouts while Essendon executed multiple strategic selections. Several highly-rated key forwards found new homes as clubs prioritized specific positional needs. The draft's emphasis on youth over experience left established performers waiting. Which selections will prove transformative remains uncertain, but early patterns suggest clubs approached this draft with distinct philosophies.
Top 5 Draft Picks Shape League's Future
The AFL's newest generation emerged from obscurity as five clubs secured their top targets in the draft's opening selections. West Coast used the first pick to select Richmond VFL standout Tom McCarthy, followed by North Melbourne snapping up Werribee sharpshooter Zac Banch at Pick 2. Port Adelaide chose 202cm utility Harry Ramm with the third selection, while Carlton added Werribee forward Flynn Young at Pick 4. The Western Bulldogs rounded out the top five by drafting Peel Thunder defender Michael Sellwood. These selections highlighted clubs' preferences for proven state league performers over overlooked prospects, while traditional dad son opportunities took a backseat to immediate talent acquisition.
Essendon Dominates Mid-Round Selections
While the top five picks established the draft's foundation, Essendon emerged as the most aggressive club in subsequent rounds, executing a calculated strategy to address multiple list needs. The Bombers added four new players to their list, including Subiaco key forward Archie May at Pick 6, ruckman Lachlan Blakiston at Pick 13, and forwards Oskar Smartt and Liam McMahon at Picks 17 and 18 respectively. Their player development strategies focused on building forward line depth and ruck support. Despite targeting overlooked draft talent, Essendon passed on Glenelg's Oscar Adams, who subsequently joined Gold Coast. This comprehensive approach demonstrated the club's commitment to rapid list regeneration through strategic mid-round selections.
Key Forward Prospects Find New Homes
Three key forward prospects secured AFL opportunities during the mid-season draft, with clubs prioritizing tall marking targets to bolster their attacking structures. West Perth's Roan Steele joined Collingwood at Pick 8, while South Adelaide's Noah Howes became the Magpies' second selection. Essendon earlier claimed Subiaco's Archie May with Pick 6. Draft surprise omissions included Richmond VFL forward Sam Toner, whose goal-kicking prowess went unrewarded. The future of several overlooked players remains uncertain, with premiership Cat Brandan Parfitt missing out on a lifeline despite attracting interest from multiple clubs. He is now free to explore opportunities through free agency across the league.
Notable Players Miss Out on Draft Selection
Despite strong performances at state league level, several experienced players failed to hear their names called during the AFL's mid-season draft. Raw Eastern Ranges defender Rod Ali and Richmond VFL forward Sam Toner were among the overlooked talents. Most notably, premiership Cat Brandan Parfitt missed selection despite interest from Essendon, West Coast, and the Western Bulldogs. The experienced midfielder, who has proven AFL credentials, will now explore free agency prospects as he can sign with any AFL club as a free agent. His omission highlights the draft's focus on younger talent over established performers.
