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
4. Pick 4 - North Melbourne: Colby McKercher
Position: Midfielder
Height: 180cm
Weight: 76kg
State: Tasmania
Club: Launceston
The Roos' second selection will likely come down to either McKercher or Western Australia's Dan Curtin. While the Roos have been closely tied to the latter, there's every chance they roll the dice on McKercher in a scenario that seems them select the best talent still available.
Although they're home to the likes of Luke Davies-Uniacke, George Wardlaw, Jy Simpkin and Tarryn Thomas, the Kangaroos add a new edge to their midfield mix with the addition of McKercher, who has pace to burn and a match-winning attitude like no other in this year's count.
His move into Alastair Clarkson's midfield mix would give the Roos some exciting excite run, much like a Chad Warner or Errol Gulden at Sydney, while allowing Rising Star winner Harry Sheezel to play across half-back or in the forward line.
Another to consider: Ryley Sanders
