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.
5. 2014 - Caleb Daniel (Western Bulldogs Pick 46)
Selected at pick No. 46 by the Western Bulldogs, Caleb Daniel has become one of the league's most effective and reliable players, defying expectations placed on him due to his stature.
Known for his precision in kicking, Daniel stands out as one of the AFL's most efficient ball users, frequently playing from half-back and delivering the ball with pinpoint accuracy.
His skill set and high football IQ have made him indispensable on the field, earning him All-Australian honours in 2020 and the Charles Sutton Medal as the Bulldogs' best and fairest the same year.
Despite his small size, Daniel's agility, spatial awareness, and quick decision-making have allowed him to thrive in the game's fast-paced environment.
He played a key role in the Bulldogs' 2016 premiership victory, showcasing his composure under pressure as he contributed significantly throughout the finals series. His performance in the Bulldogs' elimination final against West Coast, where he recorded a career-high 33 disposals, remains a testament to his ability to rise in crucial moments.
After ten impactful seasons with the Bulldogs, Daniel was traded to North Melbourne in 2024. His rise from a mid-draft selection to an All-Australian and premiership player makes him one of the biggest draft steals of the last decade and the biggest of 2014.
Honourable mentions:
- Brayden Maynard (Collingwood Magpies, Pick 30)
- Alex Neal-Bullen (Melbourne Demons, Pick 40)
- Bailey Dale (Western Bulldogs, Pick 45)