The 2023 AFL National Draft is less than a month away and with it fast approaching we've finalised our first edition Mock Draft - looking at how the opening round of the count might unfold.
The first round of November's draft has extended to 22 selections following the establishment of free agency compensation selections and one additional pick via the AFL's assistance package for North Melbourne.
With Academy and father-son bids predicted to come on the opening night of the draft, the first round could be extended past the mid-20s in what shapes as an intriguing queue.
Below we've worked through the first round of the draft order to present our opening Mock Draft of the season.
For the purpose of this exercise, we have decided not to predict prior or live trades for the draft, with the order remaining as it currently reads with the addition of matched Academy and father-son bids.Â
VIEW: FULL 2023 AFL DRAFT ORDER
19. Pick 19 - Hawthorn: Will McCabe (matched F/S bid)
Position: Key Defender
Height: 197cm
Weight: 86kg
State: South Australia
Club: Tanunda
McCabe's confirmed allegiance to Hawthorn is yet to surface, but the versatile key-position talent is expected to be donning the brown and gold from November.
McCabe has quickly emerged as one of the best intercept defenders among the 2023 crop, enjoying a breakout performance for South Australia in their matchup with a combined GWS and Sydney Academy side in May.
The son of ex-Hawk Luke, McCabe is also able to float forward where he can be a tall target and impact the scoreboard.
Another to consider:Â N/A
