The 2023 AFL National Draft is less than a month away and with it fast approaching we've finalised our first edition Mock Draft - looking at how the opening round of the count might unfold.
The first round of November's draft has extended to 22 selections following the establishment of free agency compensation selections and one additional pick via the AFL's assistance package for North Melbourne.
With Academy and father-son bids predicted to come on the opening night of the draft, the first round could be extended past the mid-20s in what shapes as an intriguing queue.
Below we've worked through the first round of the draft order to present our opening Mock Draft of the season.
For the purpose of this exercise, we have decided not to predict prior or live trades for the draft, with the order remaining as it currently reads with the addition of matched Academy and father-son bids.ย
VIEW: FULL 2023 AFL DRAFT ORDER
13. Pick 13 - Essendon: Ollie Murphy
Position: Key Defender
Height: 200cm
Weight: 85kg
State: Victoria
Club: East Brighton
After forcing the Suns and Dogs into bids, the Bombers finally find themselves on the clock at Pick 13 - four selections later than when they're first scheduled to join the draft.
At this point in the draft the pool of talent begins to open up, and with their opening selection the Bombers may strongly consider Murphy out of the Sandringham Dragons.
Somewhat of a bolter this year, Murphy is among the top line of key defenders for 2023, with Essendon potentially looking to add to their defensive third with the addition of the Vic Metro MVP winner, who is a constant threat in the air and with the ball in his hands.
Another to consider:ย James Leake
