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
21. Pick 21 - GWS: Koen Sanchez
Position: Forward-Midfielder
Height: 177cm
Weight: 69kg
State: Western Australia
Club: Applecross Mt Pleasant
The promising Western Australian would join fellow statesmen in Curtin, Hardeman and Clay Hall in earning a spot in the U18 All-Australian side thanks to a strong National Championships, where Sanchez averaged 17.8 disposals, 9.2 contested possessions and 1.5 goals per match.
Known for his pace and craft ball work in the front half of the field, Sanchez is able to play deep in attack and through the middle of the ground.
With GWS coach Ada Kingsley a big fan of having speed in his side, Sanchez could be a nice addition to a small forward crop that includes the likes of Toby Greene, Toby Bedford and Brent Daniels before adding to the Giants' midfield group.
Another to consider:Â Archer Reid
