Next Generation Stars: AFL’s Top 40 Draft Prospects Compared to Gawn, Grundy, and Dusty

AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan has revealed his top 40 prospects in the lead-up to this month’s AFL Draft. The 2023 draft will be held on November 20 and 21 followed by the rookie draft a day later. 129 players who attended the 2023 AFL Draft Combine or 2023 AFL State Draft Combine last month have been profiled by Sheehan at the AFL Draft Hub. The AFL Draft will be televised on Fox Footy and Kayo.

Kynan Brown, a left-footed inside midfielder, is a top prospect who demonstrates quick hands and sharp vision. Standing at 181cm, he played for Victoria Metro in the National Championships and for the Oakleigh Chargers in the Coates Talent League. Brown’s state Draft Combine results were impressive, making him eligible for selection as a father-son.

Nate Caddy is a 193cm pack marking forward from Victoria Metro who is described as a physical player with a vice-like grip and ability to win contested balls. His stats include an impressive 39 goals across all matches in the talent pathway this year, and his athleticism was showcased at the national Draft Combine.

Caiden Cleary is an in-and-under player from NSW-ACT who sets the tone for his team with his ferocious attack at stoppages. His national Draft Combine time of 6:06 in the 2km run highlighted his elite endurance, and he’s been part of the Sydney Swans’ Academy since he was under-10.

Lance Collard is a small forward from Western Australia who kicked 39 goals in 16 matches at Colts level. His agility test and 20m sprint results at the national Draft Combine showcased his athletic prowess. He is a member of the West Coast Eagles’ Next Generation Academy.

Jordan Croft is a tall forward from Victoria Metro who uses his mobility and height to create opportunities as a marking forward. With an impressive 2km time at the national Draft Combine, he is eligible to join the Western Bulldogs under the father-son rule.

Daniel Curtin, a left-footed defender from Western Australia, returned from injury to excel with 22 disposals and nine marks at the AFL Futures game. He averaged 23.5 disposals and 6.5 marks as a defender and midfielder at the National Championships, and his agility, speed, and precise kicking are notable.

Harry DeMattia is a midfielder/forward from Victoria Country who is a left-footed dual sports athlete with a top 10 finish in the 20m sprint at the national Draft Combine.

Zane Duursma, a mercurial forward or midfielder from Victoria Country, demonstrated exceptional skill and accuracy around the goals. His ability to read the play well and his natural leap was highlighted at the national Draft Combine.

Charlie Edwards, a medium defender and midfielder from Victoria Country, has emerged as a possible Draft bolter, demonstrating a strong year showcasing his impressive athleticism.