Successful jumps to state league football by some of the most accomplished AFL draft prospects this year have consolidated ESPN's draft board for August. With the likes of Jagga Smith and Finn O'Sullivan turning out for Richmond's VFL side, Sid Draper proving a top player for South Adelaide and Bo Allan gearing up for a WAFL finals campaign with Peel, this draft pool has impressed with its play against open age competition in the best leagues outside the AFL. This year's draft bats 22 prospects deep with top 10 potential talent.
It's not an exaggeration to posit that it may be the deepest draft pool of the past decade. But there's also no consensus king of the pack, making for a fascinating race to pick one. With state championships in the rearview mirror and finals fast approaching, this is ESPN's top 30 power rankings for August.
ALL 2024 POWER RANKINGS: | | | | South Adelaide/South Australia MID, 182cm 2024 Champs: 4 games, 21.0 disposals, 3.8 clearances, 2.
8 marks The most explosive and agile midfielder in the draft is Draper, whose brilliant evasiveness shines in the contest. His strong SANFL form has catapulted him back into first pick contention after a stress fracture hampered the start to the season, while his remarkable ability with ball in hand and defensive endeavour has impressed post-champs. Draper may not land at 1 on draft night, but he's in high demand amongst the first five selections.
Oakleigh Chargers/Vic Metro MID, 181cm 2024 Champs: 4 games, 29.3 disposa.