The Great Draft Slide: How three junior stars faced harsh reality
For every bolter in the draft, someone has to slide back the other way. DAN BATTEN speaks to three prospects about final year challenges and their mission to prove the doubters wrong.
Draft
Forward thinking? Scouts split on top draft prospect’s best role
Jobe Shanahan is one of the draft’s top forward prospects, but he might find a home in defence. He tells Chris Cavanagh about where he could play, playing with Harley, and his Saints link.
‘Achieve what he couldn’t’: Son of former Hawk’s draft ambition
His father’s AFL career might not have panned out as planned. But, that has only fuelled top WA prospect Kayle Gerreyn’s determination to prove he belongs at the elite level.
Phantom draft: Where the big first-round sliders could land
There’s so much talent at the top of this year’s draft crop, which means some absolute stars are set to slide down the order. See the clubs that could land a steal on draft night.
More Stories
Draft Intel: Jagga pushes case for No. 1 pick, key forward bolter
Richmond has had a close look at Jagga Smith, who is firming as a potential No. 1 draft pick. Plus, a key forward bolter who could go top-10, a huge game from a Bombers-linked small and much more.
Full ranking points: Kako driving up draft bidding price
Isaac Kako has reminded Essendon fans how grateful they should be that NGA access has been restored with the second-highest rated Coates Talent League game on the weekend. See the full list.
Walker, Hodge: 26 draft prospects to watch out for from 2026 pool
There is some promising talent on the way in the 2026 draft, including father-sons and academy guns. And some famous names will have a decision to make. Here is who to keep tabs on.
Draft Intel: The Blues-linked star that’s a mix of Cripps and Walsh
Carlton has two father-son prospects this year, but looks set to hit the jackpot with another gun in 2026. Plus, the top-five pick who has been labelled a ‘future club captain’ and the dual-sport star with a decision to make.
Draft analysis: Every Vic Country prospect rated after U18 champs
Vic Country’s U18 champs campaign ended in heartbreak, but plenty boosted their draft stocks. We have put every Vic Country prospect under the miscroscope.
Change at the top? No.1 pick fancy snubbed after U18 carnival
The race to be this year’s No.1 draft pick has taken an unexpected turn with Josh Smillie snubbed from the Under-18 All-Australian team. Plus, see full stats for every player selected.
AFL Draft: Stars, surprises, rankings from U18 carnival
With the under-18 national championships over, all attention turns to November’s national draft. Here are the players who starred during the tournament, plus some surprises who lifted their standings.
Metro v Country: All Supercoach scores from the U18 Champs
Vic Metro got the win over Vic Country but they needed a controversial 50m penalty in the final seconds to secure the National Championships. Check out all the Supercoach scores.
Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/afl/draft/page/18