It’s draft week and with that comes mock drafts, projections and wish lists. With that in mind, westernbulldogs.com.au have had a look around and compiled a list of who the draft watchers think we’ll select, or should select, in Friday’s NAB AFL National Draft.
The Age
The Bulldogs will have some decent options as their first choice and could get a look at Todd Marshall, who started the year as the standout key forward but tired as the year went by and seems to be making his way down the order. His form early was highly athletic and extremely promising, so he'd be well worth a look. The foot skills and versatility of Alex Witherden could appeal, and Jordan Gallucci has the sort of versatility the Dogs have valued in recent seasons. It seems highly unlikely Tim English will get to them but stranger things have happened with ruck prospects in strong drafts.
Others: Cedric Cox (North Ballarat Rebels), Harrison Macreadie (Henty), Jack Maibaum (Eastern Ranges), Kobe Mutch (Bendigo Pioneers)
- Emma Quayle
Herald Sun
Who’s in the frame: Todd Marshall, Will Hayward, Cedric Cox
Marshall is the man the premiers want. He only teased and some think he is a boom or bust pick, but this mob draft and develop players better than anybody. Would learn under premiership players Tom Boyd and Travis Cloke. Hayward a hot chance if available.
- Sam Landsberger
AFL Media
AFL talent football manager Michael Ablett joined AFL.com.au draft guru Cal Twomey and Nat Edwards on AFL.com.au’s Road to the Draft podcast where they said that the Bulldogs should look closely at key forward prospect Todd Marshall of the Murray Bushrangers if he’s available.
“He’s an interesting one.
“He’s almost 200 centimetres and a key forward which is always attractive. I think there’s some concern about his consistency and impact he’s having on games, particularly in the back half of the year.
"We’ve all seen the talent that he possesses and for a guy of his size to do what he does at ground level and below his knees is exceptional, so that’s what makes him attractive and you can’t leave him on the table for too long, so I can’t see him getting out much further than that 19-20 pick.
- Michael Ablett
"I guess with the Dogs too, given that they’ve just won the flag, so that buys them a little bit of time and Tom Boyd showed in that grand final that he looked like he could be about ready to explode.
"They’ve brought Travis Cloke in to fill that second, tall forward role for a couple of years, (which would allow) Todd Marshall to build up his body, build up his consistency at VFL level, then when he is ready to get pushed into the senior side.
"He’ll be a good fit I reckon."
- Cal Twomey:
SEN Inside Football
The premiers are fans of Cedric Cox (he might be available at 26 though), but could also look at Todd Marshall or Will Hayward if they are there.
