The 2025 Phantom Draft is here, and it's a doozy! With four clubs holding back-to-back picks, potential bids inside the top 10, and a deep pool of talent, predicting the draft order is more challenging than ever. But fear not, we've got you covered with our top 30 picks, late-round whispers, and all the trade gossip you need.
The Do-It-All Prospect:
Let's start with the top pick, where the Eagles are poised to snap up the versatile Josh Duursma. This Gippsland Power star can do it all - he's a half-back interceptor, a dominant midfielder, and a forward threat around the goal. With a basketball background and a family legacy in AFL, Duursma is set to shine in the west.
But wait, there's a twist! The Eagles might opt for Cooper Duff-Tytler instead, leaving Duursma for another club. And that's not all - the Eagles could also bid on Carlton's father-son prospect, Harry Dean, sparking a bidding war.
The Top-Three Freak:
Zeke Uwland, the midfield maestro, is set to join his brother Bodhi at the Suns. With leadership traits and a desire to impact the AFL immediately, Uwland is a top-three talent. But will the Eagles bid on him first, or go for another player?
The Key Defender:
Harry Dean, the Carlton father-son prospect, is a lock for the Blues. This quick, competitive, and tall defender can intercept marks and shut down opponents. But how will the Blues match the bid? They might trade picks with Essendon to secure Dean.
The Rising Star:
Sullivan Robey, the Eastern Ranges midfielder, is a late bloomer who exploded into top-10 calculations. With a big body, mobility, and toughness, Robey is a hot commodity. But will the Tigers go for him, or opt for speedster Sam Grlj or interceptor Xavier Taylor?
The Physical Grunt:
Sam Cumming, the South Australian defender, is a tough, tenacious player with great overhead marking ability. He's a physical presence who could add hardness to the Tigers' group. But the Tigers have other options, including Robey, Taylor, and Grlj.
The Late-Round Whispers:
Beyond the top 30, there are plenty of talented players to watch. Jacob Farrow, the rangey, versatile midfielder, is a hot prospect. The Demons, Hawks, and Roos are all interested, but will he slip through the cracks?
The Trade Gossip:
The draft isn't just about the picks - it's also about the trades. Carlton is looking to secure Jack Ison, a Next Generation Academy player, while the Crows are eyeing a trade up the board. The Bombers are in talks with Carlton to swap picks, and the Giants are considering re-selecting Jake Stringer. It's a complex web of negotiations that will shape the draft order.
The Bottom Line:
The 2025 Phantom Draft is a thrilling ride, full of uncertainty and potential. With so many talented players and trade possibilities, it's anyone's guess who will end up where. But one thing's for sure - the draft will be a pivotal moment in shaping the future of AFL clubs. Who will rise to the top, and who will be left behind? Only time will tell.
