Father-son prospect Cody Walker picks Carlton over Richmond in big AFL Draft win for Blues

Part of Richmond’s next generation academy, Cody Walker had the choice between two clubs – but in a long-awaited win for Carlton, the son of 202-game Blue Andrew has made his call.

Carlton has secured an ultra-professional attacking threat out of stoppages with father-son jet Cody Walker picking the Blues over the Tigers.

The son of 202 game utility Andrew Walker, who was a high-flying forward and defender for the Blues across 13 seasons from 2004-16, Walker is on track to be a top-10 pick in the 2026 draft.

Despite being a father-son prospect, Walker was also part of Richmond’s next generation academy so could have chosen to be tied to the Tigers, but instead has committed to the Blues.

Bendigo Pioneers coach Danny O’Bree entered 2025 planning to rotate Walker across all lines to give him experience, but the 17-year-old proved too good in a vital midfielder-forward role that his magnet has been stuck all year.

Father-son Cody Walker has committed to Carlton. Picture: Morgan Hancock/Getty Images

Walker, pictured with Charlie Curnow at Blues training, is touted as a top 10 selection in next year’s draft. Picture: Morgan Hancock/Getty Images

“We probably haven’t played him back at the moment probably because he is going so well and continually working on his mid and forward craft,” O’Bree said.

“We didn’t really want to do too much leading into nationals because he is sort of playing that role but certainly afterwards we will look to give him a role down back as an attacking defender and work on that part of his game as well.

“It’s hard to move someone when they are going so well.”

Walker has averaged 23.5 disposals, 4.5 clearances and 5.8 score involvements for the Pioneers in the Coates League through eight games this year.

A 31 disposals, three goal domination against North Ballarat – in which he earned 232 ranking points – was a showcase his ability to win the ball around clearances and be a weapon in attack.

“He was amazing that day and particularly when the game was in the balance, he really stood up in those moments,” O’Bree said.

Walker has played in three games with Vic Country in the under-18 national championships despite being a bottom age player and found his feet in a largely forward role, racking up 24 disposals against the Allies in his last outing.

Cody Walker (#21) finds a target inside 50 against the Allies. Video: AFL.com.au

And Walker showing off his quick hands in the same game. Video: AFL.com.au

O’Bree said the teen was diligent at performing in different roles, having already earned a reputation for his professionalism.

“He is seriously committed and intense,” the coach said.

“I just love how passionate he is and how driven he is to be better. I think that is a real credit to him and his family.”

Carlton has made a point of welcoming Cody and Andrew Walker into the club when possible this year, with Cody training with the senior Blues at times, and going over vision with players and staff.

The Blues landed a double father-son win in last year’s draft, taking both Ben and Lucas Camporeale, the sons of premiership player Scott.

Key defender Harry Dean, the son of 1995 flag winner Peter Dean, is a promising Blues father-son in the current draft pool.

Walker said committing to the Blues was a no-brainer.

“Seeing Ben and Lucas do it this year, Harry Dean closing in on his dream and me next year, it is really exciting and such an honour for me to be able to continue the family name at the Blues,” he said.

Blues coach Michael Voss on Friday defended the father-son rule, which came under-fire from Fremantle CEO Simon Garlick this week, and said he was keen for Walker to join the Blues.

“To have another Walker come through the doors is very exciting for the football club and obviously when obviously that times and he is ready to come in it will be a great story,” Voss said.

Originally published as Father-son prospect Cody Walker picks Carlton over Richmond in big AFL Draft win for Blues