Hampton Rovers defender Archie Roberts enjoyed a strong draft campaign to earn U18 All-Australian honours as one of 2023's leading half-back flankers.
Roberts had an impactful start to his Talent League season with the Dragons this year, recording 30 disposals on multiple occasions across the opening three matches before an interrupted next period wouldn't see him return for Sandringham until the eve of their finals campaign.
During that time away, Roberts represented Vic Metro in all four of their National Championships matches and would amass a mean of 20.8 disposals, 3.8 marks and 6.0 rebound 50s per game as an attacking asset out of defence.
Roberts would save his best game until last at the carnival to feature among Vic Metro's best performers before earning a spot at half-back in the Team of the Year. He would also be selected at the same position in the Talent League's Team of the Year for 2023.
It's Roberts' speed, ball use and constant run that sees him well-placed among this year's crop of prospects, with his ability to flick the switch on the transition and immediate get his side on the offensive that makes him a promising name for AFL clubs to consider.
The likes of North Melbourne (Picks 15, 17 and 18), GWS (Pick 16), Adelaide (Pick 20) and Carlton (Pick 22) are among the clubs that could be monitoring the 184cm flanker.
Roberts, who can also push up into midfield as an outside mover, clocked a time of 6:08 minutes at the 2km time trial at this year's AFL Draft Combine to rank seventh best and show off his endurance running.
Position: Defender
Height: 184cm
Weight: 79kg
State: Victoria
Club: Hampton Rovers
Strengths
Speed
Kicking
Two-Way Runner
Line-Breaking
Draft Range
Pick 16-30
Potential Landing Spots
North Melbourne (Picks 15, 17+18)
GWS (Pick 16)
Adelaide (Pick 20)
Carlton (Pick 22)
AFL Comparison
Expert comments
"A left-footed half-back who is a penetrating kick, smart interceptor and uses his anticipation and clean hands to have an impact. Showed good rebounding speed and fine decision-making ability to set up play from defence for Victoria Metro during the National Championships" - Kevin Sheehan
