In the world of AFL, the National Draft is often a pivotal moment for clubs, determining their future success based on the talent they can recruit.
While high-profile picks often steal the spotlight, history shows that some of the most impactful players emerge from the later rounds.
This article highlights the biggest draft steals from every National Draft since 2010, focusing on selections that have defied expectations and become key contributors for their respective teams.
To qualify for this list, we have set specific criteria: no father/son selections or academy picks are included, ensuring that only the purest outcomes of the draft process are recognised.
Additionally, we focus on players who made significant contributions to the clubs that drafted them, excluding those like Jordan Dawson, who, despite being a late pick, truly flourished after moving to a different club.
From tenacious midfielders to dependable defenders, these late-round gems showcase the incredible value that can be found outside the top selections, underscoring the importance of astute recruiting in shaping a team's success.
4. 2013 - James Sicily (Hawthorn Hawks, Pick 56)
Drafted with pick No. 56 by the Hawthorn Football Club, James Sicily has proven to be an incredible bargain from the 2013 AFL Draft.
Renowned for his sharp on-field instincts and versatility, Sicily's journey from a late pick to Hawthorn captain is remarkable.
Initially drafted as a forward, Sicily's career took off in 2017 when he transitioned to the backline, showcasing his elite marking ability, intercept skills, and ferocity in defense.
This shift turned him into one of the league's premier defenders, culminating in All-Australian honours in 2023.
Sicily's impact on-field is matched by his leadership, as he was appointed Hawthorn's 38th captain in 2023, succeeding Ben McEvoy.
His relentless playing style and competitive edge have made him a standout for Hawthorn, further emphasised when he claimed the club's Peter Crimmins Medal in 2022 as their best and fairest.
His leadership, combined with his ability to influence games both defensively and offensively, cement his place as one of the most valuable late draft picks of the past decade.
Honourable mentions:ย
- Tom Barrass (West Coast Eagles, Pick 43)
- Ben Brown (North Melbourne Kangaroos, Pick 47)
- Darcy Byrne-Jones (Port Adelaide Power, Pick52)