Tall defender Dan Curtin is the leading prospect from Western Australia, presenting as arguably the most versatile talent among this year's draft class.
The Claremont and West Coast product looms as a likely top 10 selection that could be picked in the opening three slots at November's intake as clubs look to add promising and ready-made key position talent to their list.
Curtin is just that, with the 197cm teenager ready to take the next step and compete at the elite level with the ability to slot into a role across any line of the field.
While primarily a key backman, Curtin has shown he is capable of swinging forward as an attacking target or even using his big frame to throw his weight around in midfield as a contested ball winner.
The young draft star put his name firmly on the map at last year's Future Stars game, recording 20 disposals and eight marks in a win at the MCG on grand final day.
Adding to his list of accolades, Curtin would take out MVP honours in what was a difficult National Championships this year for WA, with their star piece only strengthening his stocks as a potential top-five pick across his carnival. Averaging 23.5 disposals, 6.5 marks 3.5 clearances and 4.3 tackles from his four appearances, Curtin would earn a Team of the Year selection at centre half-back.
Back in WA, the Claremont product would split his season between Colts and senior duties for the Tigers, managing half a dozen appearances at the latter level to show his value at a professional level.
Curtin averaged close to 17 disposals and over four tackles in the back end of this year as the Tigers pushed for a final run, adding to his strong Colts campaign where he was able to play through midfield.
A hamstring injury made Curtin unavailable to partake in the AFL Draft Combine, however, the ailment isn't likely to do his draft rankings much harm.
The strong defender could be in the sights of North Melbourne at either Pick 2 or 3, while the likes of Hawthorn (Pick 4) and Geelong (Pick 8) may also be interested.
Curtin's strong defensive work and aerial prowess will draw comparisons to West Coast's Tom Barrass or Giant Sam Taylor, while the teenager himself likes to mirror his game on Fremantle great Matthew Pavlich.
Position: Defender
Height: 197cm
Weight: 95kg
State: Western Australia
Club: West Coast
Strengths
Versatility
Aerial Threat
Size
Senior Experience
Draft Range
2-8
Potential Landing Spots
North Melbourne (Picks 2+3)
Hawthorn (Pick 4)
Geelong (Pick 8)
AFL Comparison
Expert comments
"Can play at either end of the ground as a swingman position player. Also played in midfield for Claremont recently. Has that big body in there, super versatile and really composed with ball in hand." - Michael Alvaroย
