Melbourne has added significant firepower to its midfield brigade with the first-round selections of Harvey Langford (pick 6) and Xavier Lindsay (pick 11) at the 2024 AFL Draft.
Both players bring exceptional talent and versatility to the Demons, who are laying the groundwork for future success with a promising young crop.
Langford, a 191cm onballer from the Dandenong Stingrays, has enjoyed a standout 2024 season, co-captaining his team to a preliminary final and earning the Larke Medal as the U18s National Championships' MVP.
Known for his strong clearance work, aerial ability and leadership, Langford described his Melbourne selection as โa sigh of relief.โ
โChristian Petracca, Oliver, Gawn - those big names - it'll be pretty special to learn off them,โ Langford said of joining Melbourne's established stars.
โMy game is based off competitiveness, just how hard I work on and off the field. Hopefully, I can come in and earn the respect from all those players.โ
Langford has been likened to Western Bulldogs star Marcus Bontempelliย and Melbourne's recruiting manager Jason Taylor believes the youngster can make an immediate impact.
โTo get Harvey is a real thrill for us,โ Taylor said.
โHe is a big, strong midfielder with a real edge about him. He's an absolute competitor, and his unique aerial ability makes him stand out. We're rapt to bring him into the midfield.โ
Joining Langford is 183cm utility Xavier Lindsay, whose elite kicking, speed, and versatility have impressed recruiters.
The Gippsland Power product won the Morrish Medal as the Coates Talent League's Best and Fairest and is praised for his ability to play multiple positions effectively.
Lindsay is recovering from a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury but is optimistic about his progress.
โThe knee's coming along nicely. I'm nearly back to running at a hundred per cent,โ he said.
โObviously, I've got to build my fitness base back up, but I'm getting there.โ
Reflecting on his journey, Lindsay said he's comfortable in various roles.
โI'm happy wherever - half-back, wing, inside. I've progressed my midfield game a lot this year, but I'm happy to play wherever the team needs me.โ
Taylor lauded Lindsay's natural footy instincts, noting his ability to generate momentum and meterage.
โHis IQ is high as well, and he has unbelievable spatial awareness,โ Taylor said.
โHe's an elite kick with the ability to play a variety of positions, which is a huge asset.โ
The Demons moved aggressively to secure Lindsay, trading a future first-round pick to Essendon for pick 11.
Melbourne fans will be eager to see how Langford and Lindsay develop under the guidance of Simon Goodwin and the club's leadership core, with both players offering a glimpse into an exciting future at Melbourne.
