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Bombers bold draft plan to secure high-end pick as rival “open” to splitting selection

Essendon traded out its first-round pick, but reports have indicated they may try get back into the top end of the draft.

Published by
Aidan Cellini

Essendon is contemplating a bold move to re-enter the top end of the draft, utilising Melbourne's 2025 first-round pick to secure a high selection.

The Bombers sold away this year's first-round selection to the Demons to gain significant draft capital for Next Generation Academy prospect Isaac Kako, who is expected to be one of the first 15 names called out in next month's National Draft.

Essendon holds Picks 28, 31, 40, 46, 53, 54, and 65, equating to 2,586 draft points, or the equivalent of Pick 2 (2,517 points).

Herald Sun's Jay Clark reported that the Bombers could look into getting into the teens of the draft, pending Kako's bid coming relatively early in the night.

SEE MORE: Essendon Draft analysis

It's understood that St Kilda is "open" to splitting one of picks 7 or 8 to gain a pair of selections later in the first round.

GWS currently holds Picks 15, 16 and 21, whilst Richmond's historic hand consists of 18, 20, 23 and 24 later in the piece.

Given the depth and strength of the 2024 draft, the Saints would find it more appealing to secure selections for this year's crop rather than gain an additional first-round pick in 2025.

North Melbourne is also willing to split its Pick 2 for two later selections, with the Tigers the most likely suitor.

The Kangaroos reportedly offered its Pick 2 and a future first-round selection for Richmond's Pick 6 and 11.

Clubs can trade picks leading up to and during the draft.

The 2024 National Draft will take place on November 20 and 21.

Published by
Aidan Cellini