Ultimate guide to every AFL club’s under-23 players heading into the 2025 season
How are your club’s under-23 players tracking? GLENN MCFARLANE looks at the young guns set to have the biggest impact in 2025 and asks the hard questions about Essendon’s youngsters.
AFL
Don't miss out on the headlines from AFL. Followed categories will be added to My News.
How good has your club’s drafting and development of youngsters been in recent years?
Do you have a group capable of taking you to a flag? Or is the talent still coming up short?
GLENN McFARLANE has gone through every club’s under 23s, breaking down the key players and where they stand.
To be eligible a player has to be under 23 years of age on March 1, 2025.
Riley Thilthorpe is back ðŸ˜#AFLCrowsSaintspic.twitter.com/MCWQRh8rpD
— AFL (@AFL) July 13, 2024
ADELAIDE
HEADLINE MAKER
Riley Thilthorpe appeared a different player – in looks and in impact – after he returned for the last seven games of 2024, following a pre-season knee injury. He kicked 15.6 in that time, including two bags of three. Sorry Tex, but Thilthorpe and Darcy Fogarty should own the forward line from now on.
X-FACTOR
If the Crows are to go from perennial disappointments to contenders, Jake Soligo must take a big hand in the club’s ‘generation next’ midfield. He went from young talent to a borderline star in 2024, but there are still some gears to get through. A Showdown Medal winner at 21, and third in the B&F, his influence on the team is growing.
QUESTION MARK
We’re not suggesting Josh Rachele is not going to be a serious player, or even a star. He most likely will be. But will he see out his long-term deal with the Crows which stretches until the end of 2029? And can he iron out the flaws that have at times irked the coaching staff? He was dropped for the final round over his comments about Port Adelaide fans, as Matthew Nicks and Adelaide attempted to rein in his at times over-exuberant personality. The relationship between the club and one of its brightest young stars will be a big narrative in 2025.
KEEP IT UP
The Crows had to wait a long time for its first father-son pick, but it has been worth it. Max Michalanney has missed only one game since being drafted, slotting seamlessly as a pillar in defence. He was just pipped off the best-and-fairest podium by Soligo.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Adelaide almost had a “handle with care” sign pinned to Dan Curtin in his first season, as he played just seven matches. But that will change in 2025. Drafted as a defender, he has spent part of the pre-season in attack and could win some midfield time. Has great versatility.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
When Izak Rankine talks, we listen. And when he says that last year’s pick 4 Sid Draper is going to make an immediate impact, you start getting excited. Draper has relished the hard work on the track with his running aerobic capabilities already standing out.
Introducing the 2024 Norm Smith medallist, Will Ashcroft ðŸ…#AFLGFpic.twitter.com/HhhXo6bKoa
— AFL (@AFL) September 28, 2024
BRISBANE LIONS
HEADLINE MAKER
Norm Smith Medal; premiership medal; 2023 goal of the year; overcoming a knee reconstruction … it’s been a wild two-season, 31-game ride for Will Ashcroft. The scary thing is he is going to get better. His performance alongside Lachie Neale in the grand final last year was extraordinarily mature for a 20-year-old. More medals ahead!
X-FACTOR
Essendon was one of several Victorian clubs trying to prise an injury-hit Kai Lohmann out of Brisbane in 2023. They must be shattered that they couldn’t make it happen. He transformed into one of the AFL’s most exciting young talents, with a penchant for big-game moments including 4.0 in the grand final. He kicked 36 goals in 2024. Could he kick 50 this year?
QUESTION MARK
James Tunstill has had limited opportunities since being drafted at pick 41 in 2021. His three seasons have yielded nine games, including four last season, but this is a bloody hard side to win a regular slot in, particularly through the midfield and forward zones.
Darcy Wilmot 🤯🤯#AFLCatsLionspic.twitter.com/8A6SXIcqwW
— 7AFL (@7AFL) September 21, 2024
KEEP IT UP
Darcy Wilmot is a weapon. As a general defender, he rates above average in disposals, intercepts, metres gained and pressure, making him almost the perfect blend of attack and defence as a running half-back.
What a grab from Logan Morris 🤩#AFLLionsDonspic.twitter.com/nqvbmTCuhE
— AFL (@AFL) August 24, 2024
WATCH THIS SPACE
What a ride it was for Logan Morris in his first year. He chowed down on a BBQ Angus meal with six nuggets on the side and a frappé after a VFL match … then came in as a late replacement for his AFL debut a few hours later. He finished with two goals in a grand final, and a flag for good measure. Joe Daniher’s retirement creates greater opportunities for him.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
The Lions not only won the flag, they replenished with acquisitions who could be competing with Jaspa Fletcher for a wing role. Levi Ashcroft, as a bargain pick 5 father-son selection, and Sam Marshall, an Academy pick at 25, look ready to make an impression.
CARLTON
HEADLINE MAKER
The Blues wanted Jagga Smith so much that they were prepared to exit the race for Dan Houston. They traded for pick 3, and believe the midfielder is a generational player who might one day be captain. He played 21 games in 2024 (with Oakleigh, Vic Metro, Richmond VFL and Australia under-18s). Ready to make an impact early without being pushed at full throttle.
Elijah Hollands has been a brilliant pickup for the Blues ðŸ‘#AFLBluesCatspic.twitter.com/Po2S5xhXH7
— AFL (@AFL) June 21, 2024
X-FACTOR
Elijah Hollands is looking like a bargain pick-up. In his first season at the Blues, he played 22 games, combining pressure and contest in equal measure. His spark changed the dynamic at times. Seems to be thriving on working with his brother, Ollie Hollands.
QUESTION MARK
To get Smith, the Blues had to sacrifice their most prolific small forward last season, Matt Owies. That puts the pressure on Corey Durdin and Jesse Motlop to stake their claim for more permanent roles. Durdin kicked seven goals in 14 games split by injuries, while Motlop kicked six from seven games. Carlton needs more from both this season.
KEEP IT UP
Lachlan Cowan is an understated backman, who played 17 matches last year. He looked more assured and confident in his roles as the season progressed. His pressure was rated above average. Has learnt so much from Nic Newman.
Anything you can do.
— Carlton Reserves (@CarltonReserves) July 21, 2024
Young @CarltonFC midfielder Cooper Lord kicks a very impressive goal from the pocket, young @CarltonFC midfielder Jaxon Binns kicks a very impressive goal from the same pocket minutes later! pic.twitter.com/VpuDNtcZF6
WATCH THIS SPACE
Jagga Smith’s best mate Cooper Lord had a whirlwind 2024, from being drafted mid-season before playing two back-end home and away games. He looked relatively comfortable at the level, particularly with his 19-disposal final round clash with St Kilda. The same could be said for Ashton Moir, who got his chance late and kicked a goal in both of his games.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
They might take time to develop but Carlton fans are looking forward to seeing Ben and Lucas Camporeale in navy blue. The father-son selections have settled well into pre-season training and will spend most of 2025 learning the ropes without any serious expectations.
COLLINGWOOD
HEADLINE MAKER
Who else but Nick Daicos! Given what he has achieved already, it’s hard to believe he has just turned 22. He will predominantly play midfield in 2025 but is eager to have some forward cameos. Rated elite by Champion Data in disposals, contested possessions, clearances, metres gained and scoreboard impact. Third in the Brownlow in 2023 (28 votes) and second last year (38). Is this the year he breaks through and wins a Charlie?
X-FACTOR
Daicos used the ‘s’ word when describing Ed Allan’s potential in 2025: “I think he can be an absolute superstar”. Allan made a statement in the final round win over Melbourne. In his second AFL game, he had 21 disposals (10 contested) and kicked a goal. If his summer training is any guide, he is a lock for the early rounds this year.
QUESTION MARK
Finlay Macrae and Reef McInnes were a part of Collingwood’s ‘fire sale’ draft haul of 2020, but both face make-or-break seasons. Macrae has struggled to bridge the gap between solid VFL form and making a stamp at AFL level in 21 games so far. McInnes has trained as a defender in the pre-season in an effort to find a spot.
A calm and composed finished from Harvey Harrison 👌#AFLPiesDonspic.twitter.com/YImnAwbAeS
— AFL (@AFL) July 5, 2024
KEEP IT UP
Harvey Harrison ticked off some important markers just before the Christmas break, doing lateral movement runs for the first time since he suffered an ACL injury in August. The Pies won’t rush his return, but he could be back mid-season. His three goals in the King’s Birthday clash showed his worth. Wil Parker could get some more opportunities as a small defender capable of providing rebound run.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Collingwood’s two 2023 draft picks – Tew Jiath and Harry DeMattia – will enter their second AFL seasons eager to make an impression. Jiath played one game last year but has taken on more responsibilities in pre-season training. A finger injury curtailed DeMattia early in his first year but the young mid showed some good signs in 13 VFL games.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
Collingwood went tall for their first and second picks of the national draft, taking Sydney academy defender Joel Cochran and Woodville West Torrens key forward Charlie West. They rounded it out with Claremont small forward Will Hayes.
Nate Caddy pic.twitter.com/sUpdqJ1Isa
— The Caddy Shack (@CharlieDons) July 6, 2024
ESSENDON
HEADLINE MAKER
It wasn’t the numbers that Nate Caddy put up in his first season that stamped him one of Essendon’s most exciting young players in recent years; it was simply the way he did it. He kicked 9.11 from 10 games. He is a work in progress, but is going to be some sort of player with more games and experience. He needs to work on his goalkicking, but Caddy is a player the Bombers can build a team around.
X-FACTOR
Essendon has long been searching for a livewire small forward and it might have found one in academy player Isaac Kako, who just happens to be one of Caddy’s old schoolmates. “We used to tear teams apart,” Kako said of their days at Parade College. Bombers fans, welcome to the Caddy and Kako show!
QUESTION MARK
Zach Reid, who qualifies by two days as he turns 23 on March 2, is the easy answer. His body has restricted him to only nine games in four seasons, including just one last year. But my colleague Jon Ralph asked a very pertinent question late last year – is Archie Perkins just a good ordinary player or a game-changer? For Essendon’s sake, we hope it is the latter. But we’re about to find out. High-end draft picks Elijah Tsatas and Ben Hobbs also need to make bigger inroads.
What a time for Archie Roberts to kick his first AFL goal ðŸ˜#AFLDonsSunspic.twitter.com/QaHPhMCfuA
— AFL (@AFL) August 10, 2024
KEEP IT UP
Archie Roberts gave Essendon fans something to cheer about in the miserable last month of last season. Essendon’s pick 54 from the 2023 draft, he looked at home, averaging 21 disposals. He can play a variety of roles, and seems to enjoy the big moments.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
Most of the attention will be on Kako, but the Bombers’ next two picks – forward/ruck Kayle Gerreyn (pick 37) and defender Angus Clarke (pick 39) – are long-term projects who will be eased into their first AFL season. Don’t expect too much from them this season, but there is a quiet confidence about their upside.
FREMANTLE
HEADLINE MAKER
Josh Treacy produced a breakout season in 2024, kicking 45.15 with pinpoint accuracy from 20 games. He was rewarded with fourth in the Dockers’ best-and-fairest. Now, armed with a new deal that runs through until 2030, the kid from Cohuna needs to back it up – and he will.
X-FACTOR
Freo hasn’t had a player kick 50 goals or more in a season since Matthew Pavlich in 2012, but they could have two this year. Treacy would be a big chance. You can add Jye Amiss into the mix, too. Amiss kicked 36.28 last year but lost his goalkicking radar at stages. He’s normally a good kick and can get it back.
QUESTION MARK
Neil Erasmus was a top-10 draft pick in 2021, but he hasn’t yet reached those heights. Just four games in 2024 for a total of 23 wasn’t the return he would have been looking for. He was best afield for Peel Thunder in the WAFL grand final, but there’s a big gulf between that and becoming an AFL regular.
KEEP IT UP
Brandon Walker’s evolution as a defender has been a real success story for the pick 50 in the 2020 draft. He finished 10th in the Dockers’ best-and-fairest last year and looks to have a future, playing on some of the opposition’s most dangerous forwards. Like the way Matt Johnson is heading too, with 37 games across the past two seasons.
Nathan O'Driscoll, that is a big time finish 🤯#foreverfreo#WAFLGFpic.twitter.com/LdI4FIwIVl
— Fremantle Dockers (@freodockers) September 22, 2024
WATCH THIS SPACE
It was almost a season from hell for Nathan O’Driscoll, who missed most of the 2024 season after a pre-season knee injury turned into a blood clot. He returned for the final two games, having 20 disposals and kicking a goal in the last round. He is talented enough to win a spot back.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
Murphy Reid has been learning from the likes of Caleb Serong and Andrew Brayshaw since being taken as pick 17 in last year’s draft. The goalkicking mid was rated a top-10 talent by Freo’s recruiting team, so they were delighted when their pick came. He’s a ballwinner, averaging 28 for Sandringham Dragons and 24.5 in the national championships.
Max Holmes, OFF A STEP 🤯#AFLDogsCatspic.twitter.com/YPHfvZcjwc
— AFL (@AFL) April 6, 2024
GEELONG
HEADLINE MAKER
He’s not yet the AFL’s best player, as Patrick Dangerfield predicted two years ago, but Max Holmes might be Geelong’s most important player. He won his first Carji Greeves Medal last year, was a part of the All-Australian initial squad of 40 and was at his explosive best either through the midfield or half-back. At 22, he is still raising the bar.
X-FACTOR
Ollie Henry and AFL Rising Star winner Ollie Dempsey finished eighth and seventh in the Cats’ best-and-fairest respectively, having regularly provided the team with game-lifting moments. Henry has kicked 78 goals in two years with the Cats, and has the capacity to push through 50 in a season. A one-time rookie pick, Dempsey had a statement-making third season, averaging almost 20 disposals and a goal a game.
QUESTION MARK
It’s far from panic stations for one-time No.8 draft selection Jhye Clark, as he did play 15 games in his second season. But Cats fans will be hoping he gets a chance to show more of his wares this year. Is 2025 the year where he finally makes his AFL mark?
KEEP IT UP
Tanner Bruhn had a strong second season as a strong inside mid. His Easter Monday best afield game was the highlight of his 17 appearances in 2024. Lawson Humphries was a revelation, having been plucked at pick 63 in 2023. As a general defender, his elite kicking and one-on-one work was a bonus for the Cats. Shannon Neale will be a big part of Geelong’s attack in the post-Tom Hawkins era.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Let’s hope ruck hope Toby Conway finally gets a break with his body. He added five games last year, booting the first goal of the Easter Monday clash as well as having 41 hitouts against Brisbane in round 6. A stress fracture in his navicular bone sidelined him for the second half of the season. Fingers crossed in 2025.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
Connor O’Sullivan showed glimpses in his debut game, and a solid VFL campaign. He was picked at No.11 in the 2023 draft. The 19-year-old had 11 disposals in his sole game and averaged 15 disposals in his VFL matches, largely out of defence.
MAC ANDREW THE MATCHWINNER 🤯#AFLDonsSunspic.twitter.com/NFQKdyntvP
— AFL (@AFL) August 10, 2024
GOLD COAST
HEADLINE MAKER
It’s unbelievable to think Mac Andrew started last season out of the Gold Coast’s Opening Round side. By season’s end, he had signed the longest active contract at the club, a mega-deal until the end of 2030. He shone as a defender but was just as dangerous when he went forward late in the year. His matchwinning, after-the-siren goal against Essendon showed real maturity.
X-FACTOR
Opportunity knocked for one-time rookie Bodhi Uwland and he grasped it with open arms. He had barely played before Damien Hardwick locked him into a defensive role, but reeled off 20 games in 2024. He ended up runner-up to Sam Collins in the best-and-fairest. He rated above average in intercept marks, kicking and one-on-one contests.
QUESTION MARK
A successful AFL career isn’t a linear pathway. And expectations can sometimes be challenging. Just ask Bailey Humphrey. His stats were almost the same from year one to year two, but his explosive impact wasn’t there last year. He conceded he let the comparisons to a young Dustin Martin get to him. He’s still going to be some sort of player, but concedes he needs to bounce back in 2025.
KEEP IT UP
Sam Clohesy wasted no time locking in a spot on the Gold Coast wing in his first season. The Suns had been tracking his progress for years. The 21-year-old played 20 games, rating above average with Champion Data in disposals, kicking and metres gained. More please!
WATCH THIS SPACE
Take your pick from Jed Walter, Ethan Read and Jake Rogers, who got a taste of it in 2024. Walters played 14 games; Read and Rogers four and nine respectively. We’re tipping big things in 2025 from Rogers, who colleague Callum Dick says has among the best skills at the club. He was hampered by a back injury last year and could take off this season.
16-year-old Leo Lombard has a VFL Grand Final goal!
— 7AFL (@7AFL) September 24, 2023
Yep, you read that right, 16!@GoldCoastSUNS | #VFLpic.twitter.com/O1e9QwAZGS
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
Get ready for the Leo Lombard highlights reel. St Kilda bid on the exciting Suns academy player at pick 9, which Gold Coast was always going to match. He’s been in the system for some time now including the Suns’ VFL side, where he won a flag as a 16-year-old. Leo loves the big moments, and in time, there will be plenty of them.
GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
HEADLINE MAKER
He hasn’t quite elevated himself to the level of a few of his midfield peers, but Finn Callaghan has plenty of time on his side. His third AFL season yielded a career-best 24 games and 550 disposals, yet he couldn’t break into the Giants’ top 10 of the best-and-fairest. The Giants will be looking to lock him into a long-term deal — and soon.
X-FACTOR
Aaron Cadman’s breakthrough three-goal, five-mark performance to sink Brisbane late in the home-and-away season showed what he can do when his confidence is up. The one-time No.1 draft pick was dropped earlier in the season but bounced back. His accurate 30.11 from 23 games in his second year was a step forward. Add Darcy Jones into this bracket, too. The kid with the lid can seriously play.
TWO IN A MINUTE FOR DARCY JONES 🤯#AFLLionsGiantspic.twitter.com/s8j2Qw0Og7
— AFL (@AFL) August 10, 2024
QUESTION MARK
Conor Stone was courted by Essendon during the trade period but chose to stick with the Giants, given the opportunities that will open in defence this year. Was it the right decision? We won’t know that for a while, but the one-time pick 15 will at least get some more chances in 2025 after playing just 13 games across the past four seasons. Contracted until 2026.
KEEP IT UP
The diminutive but creative Harvey Thomas might have been the Giants’ fourth draft pick (selection 59 overall) in 2023, but he made a strong impact in year one. He played 22 games, kicked nine goals, and created energy within the team that was infectious.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Key position players take time, so it will be interesting to monitor Max Gruzewski’s progress. The Giants thought highly enough of Gruzewski – 2022’s pick 22 – to choose him for the Battle of the Bridge last year, and he responded with two goals. He ended up playing four games for three goals. Can play at both ends.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
Hard to split the two Ollies – pick 18 Ollie Hannaford and pick 19 Harry Oliver. Hannaford can play in a variety of positions, but showed in his under-18s year he is more than capable of kicking goals. Oliver is a rebounding defender who might get a chance given the Giants’ backline will need to be reshaped after a number of departures.
Josh Weddle, you are NOT allowed to do that! 😱#AFLBluesHawkspic.twitter.com/RpqGAG04mW
— AFL (@AFL) August 11, 2024
HAWTHORN
HEADLINE MAKER
Anyone who has attended a Hawks training session this summer has been raving about Josh Weddle, and for good reason. He was good in 2024, but maybe didn’t quite elevate himself to the levels some thought he might. But he looks primed to take his game to a new level this year. He will largely play in defence but has also spent parts of the pre-season assisting as a back-up ruck and on the wing.
X-FACTOR
Hok Ball Mark II looks like being every bit as exciting as the first incarnation, which suits small forwards Nick Watson and Jack Ginnivan. The ‘Wizard’ started slowly, but was almost unstoppable at the back end of the year. His four goals against the Bulldogs and three against Port Adelaide showed his capacity to perform under finals heat. Ginnivan finished ninth in the club’s best-and-fairest after a good first year in brown and gold. He has promised to let his footy do the talking after the Ken Hinkley post semi-final spray.
QUESTION MARK
Jai Serong was brought into the Hawks’ semi-final team but will find it hard to lock down a defensive spot with Tom Barrass and Josh Battle joining the club. He won Box Hill’s best-and-fairest award, but needs some luck – and maybe a few injuries – to stake his claim. Josh Ward was a pick 7 in the 2021 draft, but has yet to be able to establish himself as a selection lock. He played 12 games in his third season, including two finals, but needs to keep pushing hard to find his role in a jam-packed midfield group.
Massimo D'Ambrosio's first season as a Hawk has been fantastic!#AFLHawksNorthpic.twitter.com/wAhhfpXrOa
— AFL (@AFL) August 24, 2024
KEEP IT UP
Did the All-Australian selectors stuff it up? Massimo D’Ambrosio was stiff to miss at least a squad nomination after a strong season on the wing in his first year with the Hawks. It made for robust debate between David King and Kane Cornes. Connor Macdonald finished sixth in the best-and-fairest off a 28-goal, 25-game season, while Cam Mackenzie was missed in the finals with his injury and will fight back hard from that.
WATCH THIS SPACE
First-year forwards aren’t supposed to do what Calsher Dear did. He kicked 25 goals from 17 games, including a scene-setting three against the Bulldogs. Dear has had a bone stress injury in his lower back during pre-season which might slow his start to the season, but he has plenty of time on his side.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
It wasn’t the easiest of first years for Will McCabe, who was a father-son pick 19 in the 2023 draft. Last February he was found to have bone stress in his lower back and he missed a large chunk of the year. He returned for seven matches for the Box Hill Hawks. The key-position player won’t be rushed.
Massive grab and goal from van Rooyen 👊#AFLDeesHawkspic.twitter.com/5HH0xz8rkZ
— AFL (@AFL) August 20, 2023
MELBOURNE
HEADLINE MAKER
Simon Goodwin is promising changes to game style – and ball movement – in 2025, which could be good news for exciting young forward Jacob van Rooyen. The Demons’ attack has been like a barren wasteland in recent years. JVR has kicked 28 goals and 30 goals in his two AFL senior seasons. A better system into forward 50 might see him crack 50 this year.
X-FACTOR
Caleb Windsor looks a 10-to-15-year lock. The lightning fast, clever wingman played 19 games, kicking eight goals and having 275 disposals. He was rated elite in pressure, and above average in clearances and scoreboard pressure. Watch him elevate further!
QUESTION MARK
Matthew Jefferson won the Demons’ best VFL player award last year off the back of his 29 goals from 17 games with Casey. But it remains a mystery why he hasn’t been called up for a game since being drafted at 15 in the 2022 draft. He is contracted until the end of 2026. Will 2025 create some opportunities or not?
KEEP IT UP
What a pick-up Judd McVee has been since he was a rookie draftee in 2021. He’s played almost 50 games, combined a half-back role with some midfield cameos and even polled a Brownlow vote when up against a Richmond midfield that included Dustin Martin. We know how important Jake Bowey can be to the Demons when his body is right. And second year Demon Koltyn Tholstrup looks to have a future after a good debut year.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Harry Sharp made a statement when he won the first 2km time-trial after being traded from Brisbane. He could work in a wing rotation with Ed Langdon and Caleb Windsor. He played 16 games across four seasons with Brisbane but couldn’t bed down a regular spot.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
The draft double-hit of Windsor and Tholstrup already looks a tick. Now, with similar picks, the recruitment of Harvey Langford and Xavier Lindsay looks like paying dividends, too. Langford, in particular, looks like a jet.
Harry Sheezel is a genuine star â#AFLNorthCatspic.twitter.com/ZzZno9apKz
— AFL (@AFL) July 27, 2024
NORTH MELBOURNE
HEADLINE MAKER
David King maintains third-year Kangaroo Harry Sheezel is the best young player to have come to North Melbourne since Wayne Carey. It’s a big call but Sheezel’s laurels have been extraordinary in 44 games. AFL Rising star, best-and-fairest in his debut year as well as another B&F placing, elite ratings for disposals and pressure. He can play almost anywhere, which adds to his importance.
X-FACTOR
George Wardlaw finished runner-up to Ollie Dempsey in the Rising Star award after 18 games last year. He is a massive team lifter but hopefully gets a clear run at it after some concussion issues in 2024. Colby McKercher is a different type of player to Wardlaw, but both will play big roles in leading this Roos’ midfield.
QUESTION MARK
Will Phillips was forced to wait until September to win a one-year deal after playing shutdown roles last year. The one-time No.3 draft pick will have to be at his best to retain a spot this year after 11 games last season. Brayden George is well regarded inside Arden St but has endured a shocking run with injuries. Let’s hope he gets a change of luck.
KEEP IT UP
Paul Curtis, Tom Powell and Jackson Archer finished in the top 10 of the club’s best-and-fairest. Curtis was fourth; Powell fifth; Archer 10th. Clarko will be hoping they can back it up in 2025.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Zane Duursma played 13 games in his debut year and scored a mark of the year finalist nomination. He was good, but we suspect he has another level to go to this season.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
It’s a measure of North Melbourne’s under 23 talent that last year’s No.2 draft pick Finn O’Sullivan isn’t featuring in the X-Factor section. He could easily have fitted there. What’s he like? Think LDU Mark II. If that doesn’t excite you, there is something wrong with you.
Jason Horne-Francis you star! â#AFLSaintsPowerpic.twitter.com/tRQ5uqu6AU
— AFL (@AFL) June 30, 2024
PORT ADELAIDE
HEADLINE MAKER
Dwayne Russell once said Jason Horne-Francis hunting the football was akin to the opening of an Indiana Jones movie – “it’s one life-threatening contest to the next … he can have three defining moments in one passage of play.” The Hornet is one of the most watchable, compelling players in the competition. He finished a close runner-up to Zak Butters in the 2024 B&F. Could he end up the Power’s best player?
X-FACTOR
Jase Burgoyne came of age in 2024. He went from a player with a pedigree to a genuine big-game performer, with his 25-disposal best afield display in the semi-final against Hawthorn his biggest moment. The move to the wing suited his style. His footy IQ is off the charts.
QUESTION MARK
Josh Sinn may have finished the season in Port Adelaide’s side – 11 disposals in each of the semi-final and preliminary final – but the pressure will be on given he is going into the final year of his current deal. He has had a terrible run with injuries. Let’s hope the 2022 No.12 pick gets a clear run at it.
KEEP IT UP
Loved what 2023 mid-year draft pick Logan Evans brought to Port Adelaide last year. He played the last 13 games – debuting at 18 – and looks like being a valuable member of the defence deep into the future. This kid can play.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Port Adelaide has a big opinion of Will Lorenz – grandson of Hawks great Graham Arthur – as they had no fears in bringing him in for the Hawks’ semi-final clash. It was only his second AFL game. And while he had only a few touches, Port rates him as a player.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
Port Adelaide couldn’t be happier to have secured exciting small forward Joe Berry as the club’s pick 15 in last year’s draft. He’s a crafty left-footer who might end up working alongside the likes of Willie Rioli and former Magpie Joe Richards.
RICHMOND
HEADLINE MAKER
Who else but Sam Lalor? He is Richmond’s first No.1 draft selection since Brett Deledio in 2004. The midfielder has been eased into his first pre-season after suffering a high grade hamstring strain in September. He’s been compared to a young Dustin Martin (settle, Tigers fans!) and if he is anywhere near as good, then it’s going to be some sort of ride.
Hot off the press 🗞
— Richmond FC 🯠(@Richmond_FC) July 28, 2024
Tom Brown kicks his first AFL goal. #AFLPiesTigers | #gotigespic.twitter.com/LxNdpO5sO3
X-FACTOR
Hopefully we can see the best of Tom Brown this year after his 2024 campaign ended prematurely with a syndesmosis injury and post-season shoulder surgery. He can play back and forward, and might need to this year. He is about to enter the final year of his current deal, so hopefully the Tigers can lock him away sooner rather than later.
QUESTION MARK
If anyone needs some luck with their body, it is defender Josh Gibcus. We know how good he could be, and how important he is to the Tigers’ future plans. He played 18 games in his debut season of 2022, but has been ravaged by injuries since. First, it was a hamstring issue that wrecked his 2023, then a knee reconstruction in 2024. Touch wood, Tiger fans!
Kane McAuliffe looks like he’s been eating extra Weet-Bix over the break.
— RFC Centre (@RFC_Centre) November 11, 2024
Phwoar.
💪💪#GoTigespic.twitter.com/XmcYCsn8Yo
KEEP IT UP
Plenty of young Tigers got chances in 2024 and it can only help with their development. The likes of Seth Campbell, Tyler Sonsie, Sam Banks and Kane McAuliffe, among others, had extra game time and will be looking to back it up this year.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Josh Smillie was taken by the Tigers with pick 7 on draft night. He has been described as the prototype of the modern midfielder, in the same vein as Patrick Cripps or Tom Green. He uses the ball well and could step straight into the midfield.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
We could have listed Richmond’s unprecedented draft haul in its entirety, but we’ve settled on Taj Hotton and Jonty Faull as two more players we can’t wait to see in yellow and black. Hotton is recovering from an ACL suffered in May, but he might end up being a draft steal.
Jack Higgins gets his third, but good lord Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera 👀#AFLSaintsPiespic.twitter.com/QO6MZv5dKn
— AFL (@AFL) March 21, 2024
ST KILDA
HEADLINE MAKER
Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera should be aiming to make the All-Australia squad and a podium B&F finish in his fourth AFL season. It’s hard to believe, with his maturity and growth as a player, that he won’t turn 22 until mid-February. As a cool, composed half-back, he averaged 25 disposals and five rebound-50s in 2024, turning defence into attack. Maybe more midfield time?
X-FACTOR
Darcy Wilson is a young star who could end up being the pick of their recent draftees. He won the club’s best first-year player and finished eighth in the best-and-fairest. Speed, a sense of dare and some good old-fashioned footy nous will hold him in good stead.
Mattaes Phillipou that is outrageous! 🌀#AFLSaintsCatspic.twitter.com/UifgxJsAQb
— 7AFL (@7AFL) August 19, 2023
QUESTION MARK
Mattaes Phillipou is going to be some sort of player. But will it forever be at the Saints? You would expect so. 2024 was a challenging year for the talented mid-forward, who played just 13 games (and six VFL games) due to injury and form. But his last four games, including 26 disposals and a goal against Sydney, showed the level he can reach. How is Lance Collard tracking? He played just three AFL games and copped a six-game ban in the VFL for a homophobic slur, so he needs to make the most of his chances in 2025.
KEEP IT UP
Mitch Owens didn’t reach his 2023 heights, but we know he can get back to that level. He can be better than his return of 23 goals in 20 games last year. Will he continue to play as a power forward or get some more midfield time? Ross Lyon seems to favour the former. Marcus Windhager and Anthony Caminiti can elevate their impact, too.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Will we see a breakout season from Arie Schoenmaker in 2025? He averaged just over 14 disposals in his four games last year, and 26 touches in his time at Sandringham. He has the talent, so it will be interesting to see if he can harness that. And can Jack Carroll make the most of his chances at his second club after his departure from Carlton?
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
Tobie Travaglia and Alix Tauru will be given plenty of time, but loom as serious long-term prospects. As picks 8 and 10, both have strong capabilities. Travaglia brings speed and power running to a midfield/half-back craving for it, and has been following Jack Steele on the track. Tauru is the sort of intercept defender the Saints need, though a back stress fracture has slowed his first pre-season.
ERROL GULDEN STEPS UP!#AFLSwansPiespic.twitter.com/Bqdmes763Y
— AFL (@AFL) August 9, 2024
SYDNEY
HEADLINE MAKER
Errol Gulden might be still smarting from last year’s grand final loss but the classy wingman can still be proud of another exceptional year. He was runner-up in the B&F and scored a second All-Australian blazer. His 2024 year resulted in Champion Data elite green ticks for all the measurements, except for kicking. Has four more years on a deal to run with Sydney.
X-FACTOR
Logan McDonald had a grand final stinker (one disposal and subbed out at the start of the third term with an ankle injury), but he had plenty of mates. Yes, there is a question mark on how good he can be, but his importance to the Swans from a structural point of view is significant. Had a challenging 2024, but still booted 37 goals from 26 games. Needs to get better in one-on-one contests and accuracy.
QUESTION MARK
If Corey Warner, brother of Chad, intended to make his presence felt to start the pre-season, he couldn’t have done it any better. He won the club’s 2km time-trial, knowing he faces a critical season ahead. He has one more year left on his deal but has played only nine games since his 2023 debut.
KEEP IT UP
Matty Roberts and Braeden Campbell each played 23 games, including the grand final, and looked to take their games to a new level. Both need to be a part of Dean Cox’s team going forward as the Swans look to regenerate on the run.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Caiden Cleary could be the Swans’ candidate for a Luke Parker role this year. Angus Sheldrick was voted by Swans players as the youngster most likely to make his mark in early 2024, but ankle ligament damage impacted his season. He didn’t add to his nine AFL games, but did muster 10 VFL matches. It’s time now.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
There is a bit of Dylan Moore in Jesse Dattoli, the Swans’ first pick (22 overall) in last year’s draft. He’s a crafty small forward/midfielder with good goal sense. Don’t stress, Swans fans, that he is currently sidelined with a lumbar stress fracture in his back. He’s a long-term project and will be a player. Excited by what Riak Andrew, brother of Mac, can do, too.
What an absolute ripper this was!
— AFL (@AFL) September 23, 2024
Congratulations to Harley Reid on winning the 2024 @NAB AFL Goal of the Year! pic.twitter.com/2oOeoaPSU1
WEST COAST
HEADLINE MAKER
It’s a fair bet to suggest that no first-year footballer in the history of the game has been the subject of as many headlines – real or imagined – as wunderkind Harley Reid. In his 20 appearances last year he tore more than a few games apart and looked every bit the superstar we predicted. He’ll get plenty of attention this year, but he is learning to deal with it.
X-FACTOR
It wasn’t a vintage second season for Reuben Ginbey, but we learnt something about the pick 9 from 2022. He is best served playing at half-back and can cause some damage to the opposition from there. He started slowly but when caretaker coach Jarrad Schofield returned him to defence, he relished the move.
QUESTION MARK
This was far from the first year that the Eagles needed from former Hawk Tyler Brockman. The electric small forward was suspended by the club after being charged for his role in an accident in May, and managed only 10 games and a solitary goal. Has upside but must be willing to work for it.
KEEP IT UP
Brady Hough took on some huge jobs on the opposition’s best small forwards including Toby Greene, Bobby Hill and Shai Bolton. Almost the club’s most improved players. You can add to this bracket Jack Williams, who had a solid 18-game season with 16.4 in 2024.
WATCH THIS SPACE
Where is Elijah Hewett at? Last year he couldn’t add to his 14 games in 2023, due to a foot issue. He’s had a smooth pre-season, with Andrew McQualter predicting big things.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
West Coast couldn’t believe its luck selecting Bo Allan with pick 16 last year. He is a rebounding defender who will one day morph into a midfielder. The Peel premiership player will push for selection early and will form a part of McQualter’s future plans.
There was just no stopping Sam Darcy 😤#AFLFinals#AFLDogsHawkspic.twitter.com/CgRHV0jgTE
— AFL (@AFL) September 6, 2024
WESTERN BULLDOGS
HEADLINE MAKER
How long will it be before Sam Darcy is the best big man in the game? It could come earlier than you think. The 208cm ruck/forward managed only seven games in his first two seasons. But his breakthrough 2024 season yielded 38 goals from 21 games. He is good in the air and on the ground, highlighted by the fact he is rated elite for forward-50 ground ball gets and above average for F50 marks. Having just signed a new four-year deal, the sky is the limit.
X-FACTOR
Just imagine if Jamarra Ugle-Hagan gets his kicking boots on at some stage. He is rated elite for forward-50 marks, but below average for accuracy. If he can change the last bit, he could turn his 43 goals from 2024 into 60-plus this year.
QUESTION MARK
Defender Jedd Busslinger has a contract locked in for 2026, but the No.13 draft pick has yet to make his debut. The club has always seen him as a bit of a project player, but we’ll find out more about him now after 38 VFL games in two seasons.
KEEP IT UP
Ryley Sanders and Joel Freijah played 13 and 14 games in their first year. You would expect them to be even more seasoned after another pre-season. Harvey Gallagher looks to have a good future, too.
WATCH THIS SPACE
The Bulldogs’ bulging forward stocks will make it hard for second year father-son pick Jordan Croft to win a regular slot. But he is doing everything right after encountering a few injuries in his first year. He will keep building his experience base in 2025.
SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT
The Dogs used five selections at last year’s national draft, with the coaches impressed by the work rate of all of those players. Pick 29 Lachie Jaques and pick 62 Luke Kennedy have relished the work.
More Coverage
Originally published as Ultimate guide to every AFL club’s under-23 players heading into the 2025 season
Tigers’ dynasty ‘godfather’ in Crows’ sights for board role
After multiple attempts to lure one of footy’s most respected minds to the club, the Crows could be on the verge of getting their man with a board shake-up looming.
Lions 2025 preview: Fagan’s tough call on premiership hero
Brisbane will be battling up forward without Joe Daniher in 2025, but perhaps the toughest call for Chris Fagan might be what happens down back. Callum Dick previews their season.