​​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

The 2026 AFL Draft is beginning to take shape following the opening round of the National AFL Under 18 Championships, with recruiters describing the class as deeper and stronger than the 2025 crop. The championships began last weekend with Western Australia defeating South Australia in Perth and Vic Country overcoming the Allies in Blacktown. The early performances have reinforced growing belief among talent scouts that this draft class offers elite prospects across every position group.

Recruiters who spoke to Fox Footy believe as many as 50 players from this group could develop into meaningful AFL contributors. That depth, combined with significant changes to the AFL draft bidding system, has increased interest in several academy and father son prospects expected to attract early selections.

Cochrane and Walker remain top prospects

​Port Adelaide tied prospect Dougie Cochrane continues to be viewed by many recruiters as the leading player in the class.

The 195cm utility from Central District is the son of former Port Adelaide and North Melbourne player Stuart Cochrane. Known for his athleticism, versatility and clean ball use, Cochrane has the ability to impact games in multiple positions. South Australia Under 18 coach Tony Bamford recently described him as a modern AFL player with all the required attributes.

Cochrane has not played this season after undergoing knee surgery in March for tendinitis. However, Bamford indicated that a return during the middle stages of the championships remains possible if his rehabilitation continues positively.

Carlton father son prospect Cody Walker remains close behind in draft rankings. Walker, whose father Andrew played 202 AFL games for the Blues, has already gained valuable experience through Carlton’s academy and VFL program.

His performances at state league level showcased his strength around contests and ability to accumulate possessions. Walker suffered an AC joint injury during Vic Country’s opening championship match but is not expected to miss significant time.

Draft rule changes could influence bidding strategy

The AFL confirmed changes to its draft bidding system earlier this year. Under the revised rules, clubs can only use two selections from the current draft to match bids through Pick 36. The adjustments are designed to create a fairer value for elite academy and father son talent.

The changes increase the likelihood of early bids on players such as Cochrane and Walker. Clubs now have stronger incentives to force academy and father son teams to pay a premium for highly rated prospects.

Several recruiters believe Cochrane could attract the first bid of the draft. Walker is also expected to be selected very early, although debate remains over whether he will be chosen before Northern Knights star Harry Van Hattum.

Van Hattum emerges as leading open draft player

While Cochrane and Walker are tied to AFL clubs, Harry Van Hattum is widely considered the best player available in the open draft pool.

The 204cm ruck forward has impressed recruiters with his athletic profile, vertical leap and advanced ruck craft. Earlier this season he produced standout performances for the Northern Knights and Ivanhoe Grammar, showcasing his ability to influence matches both in the air and around stoppages.

A recent calf injury has interrupted his campaign, but his talent remains unquestioned. Van Hattum’s combination of size, mobility and football intelligence has made him one of the most sought after prospects in the country.

Matthews creates excitement for Giants academy

One of the biggest risers in the draft pool is GWS Academy midfielder Ethan Matthews.

Matthews delivered a dominant performance against Vic Country, collecting 35 disposals, 11 clearances and 11 inside 50 entries. His display highlighted the composure, ball winning ability and game management that have attracted significant AFL attention.

Several recruiters now view Matthews as a genuine top five prospect. Such a bid would create a major challenge for GWS under the revised bidding system and could significantly impact the club’s draft hand.

Strong group pushing into first round calculations

A number of players have strengthened their positions in first round discussions through strong early season form.

Sandringham Dragons talent Arki Butler remains one of the most exciting prospects in the class. The forward midfielder has demonstrated elite skill and goal sense, including an eight goal performance in school football.

GWV Rebels midfielder Ethan Drever is regarded as one of the most complete prospects available. His consistency, contested work and versatility have made him a favourite among recruiters.

Gippsland Power defender Clancy Snell has emerged as the leading key defender in the draft. Standing 196cm, Snell combines intercept marking with strong one on one defensive ability.

Geelong Falcons prospect Noah Williams also remains highly rated due to his speed, competitiveness and ball use, although a hamstring injury interrupted his championship opener.

South Australian captain Kodah Edwards and teammate Ethan Herbert continue to attract AFL interest, while Western Australian prospects Leo Steed and Heath Mellody have both enhanced their reputations through strong representative performances.

Players looking to build momentum

Several prospects enter the remainder of the championships with opportunities to significantly improve their draft standing.

Will Malady, Xavier Ladbrook and Jackson Phillips all showed positive signs for Vic Country. South Australian talents Gabe Patterson and Mitch Harris also impressed, with Patterson kicking three goals against Western Australia.

Brisbane Academy defender midfielder Caylen Murray, Eastern Ranges midfielder Harrison Chapman and Western Australian midfielder George Gale are among several players expected to draw increased attention over the coming weeks.

Recruiters are also monitoring Fremantle NGA prospect Lucas Robinson, South Australian runner Jake Eime and classy forward Andrio Sousa after promising championship performances.

As the National AFL Under 18 Championships continue, the race for top draft positions remains wide open. With academy stars, father son prospects and open pool talent all producing strong cases, the 2026 AFL Draft is shaping as one of the most competitive and talent rich classes in recent years.