The 2024 AFL Draft is rapidly approaching, and footy fans across the country are eagerly anticipating the injection of fresh talent into their beloved clubs. In what experts are hailing as one of the deepest and most even draft pools in recent memory, the upcoming draft promises to deliver a bevy of future stars. As the countdown begins, let’s dive into the key details, top prospects, and burning questions surrounding the 2024 AFL Draft.
Key Dates and Format
Mark your calendars, footy faithful! The 2024 AFL Draft is set to kick off on November 20 with the highly anticipated first round, which is expected to extend to a whopping 26-plus selections once father-son and academy bids are factored in. The action continues on November 21, when the remaining rounds will unfold, followed by the AFL Rookie Draft on November 22.
In a significant change from previous years, clubs can no longer trade out and back into the draft to match bids on father-son or academy talent. This strategic shift is sure to add an extra layer of intrigue to the proceedings.
The Battle for Pick 1
All eyes will be on Richmond as they prepare to make the coveted No. 1 selection. In a draft class brimming with top-end talent, the Tigers have kept their cards close to their chest, leaving fans and pundits alike guessing as to which young gun they’ll snare with the prized pick.
Leading the pack of contenders is Sam Lalor, a powerhouse midfielder drawing comparisons to Richmond legend Dustin Martin. Lalor’s explosive speed, brute strength, and uncanny goal sense have many tipping him as the Tigers’ man. However, with the likes of silky-skilled Finn O’Sullivan and prolific ball-winner Jagga Smith also in the mix, Richmond faces a tough choice that could shape their future for years to come.
Father-Son and Academy Aces
The 2024 draft class is rich with father-son and academy prospects set to continue the legacies of their forebears. Leading the charge is Brisbane father-son gun Levi Ashcroft, whose sublime skills and footy IQ have Lions fans salivating. Expect a early bid on the classy midfielder, but rest assured, the Lions will match without hesitation.
Other notable father-son and academy talents include Gold Coast Academy jet Leo Lombard, Essendon NGA livewire Isaac Kako, and Carlton father-son duo Ben and Lucas Camporeale. With clubs increasingly investing in their academy programs, expect more diamonds to emerge from the rough on draft night.
Ones to Watch
While the top picks will rightfully dominate the headlines, the 2024 draft is laden with talent from top to bottom. Keep an eye on these rising stars who could prove to be the steals of the draft:
- Alix Tauru: The high-flying swingman has rocketed into top-10 contention after a blistering finish to the season.
- Jobe Shanahan: A raw but talented key forward, Shanahan could be the long-term answer for a club in need of a focal point up front.
- Joe Berry: The crafty small forward has the tricks and goal sense to be a fan favorite at the next level.
Club-by-Club Whispers
As draft night looms, the rumor mill is in overdrive with clubs jockeying for position and targeting their desired prospects. According to industry insiders, North Melbourne’s prized Pick 2 could be on the move, with Adelaide and Richmond among the clubs circling. The Roos are reportedly keen on adding some mature-age talent to complement their young core.
Elsewhere, Essendon is making no secret of its intention to bring NGA phenom Isaac Kako into the fold. The Bombers are expected to match an early bid on the dynamic forward, even if it means parting with some tasty draft capital.
“We’re committed to bringing Isaac (Kako) to the club,” a high-ranking Bombers official revealed. “He’s a once-in-a-generation talent and a perfect fit for our young, exciting forward line.”
– Anonymous Essendon official
The Final Word
The 2024 AFL Draft is shaping up to be a blockbuster event that will have long-lasting ramifications for clubs and the competition as a whole. With a bumper crop of talent on offer and no shortage of intrigue and speculation, the stage is set for a draft night that will live long in the memory of footy fans everywhere.
As the countdown to November 20 begins, one thing is certain: the future of the AFL has never looked brighter. So, buckle up, footy faithful, and get ready for a wild ride as the stars of tomorrow take their first steps towards greatness.
