Wangaratta's Darcy Wilson is an elite aerobic AFL Draft prospect who uses his endurance and ball-winning abilities to stand out as one of this year's best outside midfielders.

The Murray Bushrangers and Vic Country representative did his stocks no harm throughout 2023, taking a leading role at the Talent League level as the premier ball magnet for the Bushrangers on his way to averaging 25.4 disposals, 5.8 marks and over a goal per game.

It's Wilson's attacking nature that sees him able to roam in the front third and have an impact on the scoreboard while also having the capacity to venture up the field and cover the ground across all three lines.

Wilson would kick goals in nine of his 11 matches for Murray this year, including three matches where he booted three majors from more than 20 possessions - one of which came in the Bushrangers' wild card encounter against the GWV Rebels.

Wilson would show off his running and attracting traits at the National Championships as well, booting multiple majors in two of his four appearances for Vic Country to complement the likes of Harley Reid and Zane Duursma in the middle as part of an aggressive midfield ensemble.

His draft combine results would only strengthen his case as a likely first-round selection and potential top-10 pickup for this month's draft, with Wilson showcasing his athleticism and running ability with the top score for the running vertical and high finishes in the standing vertical, agility and 2km time trial tests.

The 186cm midfielder could be in the sights of clubs with selections in the opening half of the first round, with Geelong (Pick 8), Essendon (Pick 9), Adelaide (Picks 10 and 14) and St Kilda (Pick 13) potentially considering his services.

His athleticism, ball-winning ability and attacking impact might draw comparisons to retired Geelong and ex-Hawthorn wingman Isaac Smith.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 16: Darcy Wilson of Vic Country takes possession of the ball during the 2023 U18 Boys Championships match between Vic Country and Vic Metro at Ikon Park on June 16, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Position: Midfielder
Height: 186cm
Weight: 74kg
State: Victoria
Club: Wangaratta Rovers

Strengths

Endurance
Athleticism
Attacking Nous
Ball-Winning

Draft Range

Pick 10-16

Potential Landing Spots

Geelong (Pick 8)
Essendon (Pick 9)
Adelaide (Picks 10+14)
St Kilda (Pick 13)

AFL Comparison

Isaac Smith
Mason Wood

Expert comments

"An elusive and creative forward or wingman, Wilson covers the ground exceptionally well and has innate ability around goals." - Kevin Sheehan