The 2025 AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft proved a crucial lifeline for clubs battling injury crises and form slumps as they eye September success. Held on May 28, the draft saw all 18 selections utilised, with 16 players earning their maiden AFL opportunities.
With previous mid-season draftees like Durham, Newcombe, and Noble making immediate impacts, this year's selections will be crucial as clubs jostle for finals positioning.
Strategic Selections
West Coast Eagles opened proceedings by selecting versatile half-back/midfielder Tom McCarthy from Richmond's VFL team, who made an immediate impact with an impressive debut against Geelong. North Melbourne followed with Zac Banch from Werribee VFL, while Port Adelaide secured Harry Ramm from Glenelg.
Carlton chose Flynn Young, also from Werribee VFL, and the Western Bulldogs added Michael Sellwood from Peel Thunder to their ranks.
Injury-Driven Decisions
Essendon emerged as the draft's biggest mover, selecting a record four players to address their injury-depleted key position stocks, including highly-rated prospect Archer May from Subiaco and ruckman Lachlan Blakiston to reinforce their squad.
The Western Bulldogs also targeted reinforcements following Cody Weightman's season-ending knee injury, with the selection of half-back flanker Sellwood.
Experience Over Youth
A notable trend has seen clubs prioritising mature-age recruits over raw talent, valuing the reliability and leadership that veteran state league performers bring to the AFL level.
This shift is evident in selections like McCarthy, who, at 24, brings both youth and maturity, and is ready-made for the senior team.
Future Impact
The draft continues evolving as a vital tool for maintaining competitive balance throughout the season. With growing talk about a mid-season trade period added to the calendar in future years, it's never been so important for teams to make strategic decisions to enhance their playing list.
With finals only a few months away, which recruit will make the biggest impact? And who might be the missing ingredient for finals success? The impact of these recruits will be closely watched, with many expected to play pivotal roles in their teams' fortunes.
With the AFL Grand Final only months away, clubs need to make every step a winner between now and September to achieve ultimate success. What will you be doing on Grand Final Day on September 27 this year? Stay tuned for more news and updates, and check out your party options here.
For a complete list of all 18 selections and detailed profiles, visit AFL.com.au's draft hub.