Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020
Port Adelaide is determined to secure potential No.1 AFL draftee Dougie Cochrane despite looming changes to the AFL’s draft system. The Power have first access to the talented young prospect through their Next Generation Academy, but upcoming adjustments to the bidding rules could force the club to use multiple top-10 draft picks to lock him in. Coach Josh Carr confirmed the club’s commitment, emphasizing the importance of adding Cochrane to their ranks ahead of the 2026 draft.
Carr Confirms Commitment to Cochrane
Port Adelaide coach Josh Carr stressed that while public lobbying will be handled by club management, he fully supports the effort to bring Cochrane to the club. "From my point of view as coach, I just want these players in at our football club. So whatever we need to do to do that, we'll do it. But I will probably let Richo and (list manager Justin Cripps) Crippa deal with it," Carr said.
The 17-year-old, son of former Port and North Melbourne player Stuart Cochrane, is already generating significant attention as a top prospect. Observers compare his playing style to Swans forward Charlie Curnow, while others see the potential for him to become an elite midfielder.
Draft Changes Could Increase Costs
The AFL is expected to change how draft points are used, meaning clubs will no longer be able to convert multiple low draft selections into a high pick. Previously, Brisbane employed this tactic to secure dual Norm Smith medallist Will Ashcroft, using picks 34, 35, 38, 40, and 41. Port may now need to commit two top-10 picks to secure Cochrane, while Carlton faces a similar situation for father-son selection Cody Walker.
Chief executive officer Matthew Richardson has publicly criticized the changes, calling them a "massive disadvantage" to the Power. These adjustments also have implications for future father-son selections in 2027, including likely picks Louis Salopek, son of Steven, and Tevita Rodan, son of David.
Player Profile and Potential
Carr highlighted Cochrane’s competitiveness and strong foundations both on and off the field. "He's still young and raw. He's a fantastic kid. He's got obviously really good grounding and just wants to be a really good player. He's competitive - he's got all the ingredients. So we'd love to have him at this footy club," he said.
As Cochrane prepares to turn 18 next month, his athleticism and versatility make him a potential game-changer for Port Adelaide. Fans and analysts are already debating where he will have the most impact, whether as a forward or midfielder.
What This Means for Port Adelaide
Securing Cochrane would be a major coup for Port, providing both immediate excitement for supporters and long-term talent for the club’s future. The AFL’s new draft rules may make it more challenging, but Carr’s comments underline that the club is ready to act decisively.