In the first chapter of Zero Hanger'sย positional rankings for the final week leading up to the 2023 AFL Draft, we'll be counting down the five best forward prospects on offer.
Between spearheads, small forwards or hybrid assets, the premier attacking names among this year's class each offer differing skill sets and strengths, with each of the top five a live chance of earning top 10 draft selections.
Two of the five players listed have ties to AFL clubs via either father-son or Academy links, while a further two teenagers in this list won't be the first from their families to step up to the elite level.
Accompanied by comments from AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan, here are the FIVE best forward prospects for the 2023 AFL Draft...
4. Nate Caddy
FULL PROFILE
Position: Key Forward
Height: 193cm
Weight: 92kg
State: Victoria
Club: Yarrambat
The nephew of former Richmond premiership utility Josh Caddy, Nate is a high-leaping ley forward who knows how to turn the game in his favour.
While he stands at 193cm, Caddy is one of the leading contested mark players this year's class has to offer, mimicking two-time Coleman Medal winner Charlie Curnow with his capacity to crash packs and convert on goal.
The Northern Knights product represented Vic Metro on a total of five occasions across the past two seasons, tallying nine goals to see his services placed among the likely first 10 selected next Monday night.
Caddy's Talent League season haul of 25 goals was good for eighth best in the league for total goals and third highest for goals per game (2.8), with Caddy making the most of his limited number of appearances to kick multiple majors on seven occasions.
His draft campaign would culminate with a 6.4 and 25-disposal outing against Bendigo in Round 11.
Kevin Sheehan says: A pack marking forward with a vice-like grip overhead who has a real physical presence with his impact inside 50. Has also shown he can provide a lift for his team with his ability to win the contested ball as a midfielder when the occasion arises. Had an outstanding year with the Northern Knights averaging 16.3 disposals and 6.2 marks across nine matches to earn selection in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year.
