Welcome to Zero Hanger's third and final 2023 AFL Mock Draft, where we'll cover the entire opening round of selections - predicted to be 28 picks in total.
Following our first and second Mock Drafts, this edition will take live trading into consideration and will look to select a balance of list needs and best available talent.
The opening round of the draft is set to see a suite of Academy and father-son bids lodged, meaning the order will shuffle significantly within the opening 30 selections.
The current first-round order falls between Pick 1 and 22, with the latter selection expected to balloon out to 28th overall following matched bidding.
Our final edition Mock Draft consists of ONE live trade, which includes a trio of 2023 first-round selections.
SEE ALSO: 2023 AFL MOCK DRAFT - FIRST EDITION
SEE ALSO: 2023 AFL MOCK DRAFT - SECOND EDITION
So, without further ado, here is Zero Hanger's FINAL Mock Draft of 2023.
5. Pick 5 - Hawthorn: Colby McKercher
FULL PROFILE
Position: Midfielder
Height: 180cm
Weight: 76kg
State: Tasmania
Club: Launceston
The Hawks will be awaiting to see who is left over from North Melbourne's pair of picks, while Eastern Ranges small forward Nick Watson will also be in the mind of list boss Mark McKenzie.
McKercher's availability sees the lighting-quick Allies onballer land at the Hawks fifth overall, with the Tasmanian young gun a prospect who can suitably complement Sam Mitchell's current engine room ensemble.
A bonafide ball-winner and inside/outside threat, McKercher will be a nice addition to the fledgling Hawks outfit.
Others to consider: Nick Watson, Nate Caddy
The idea that Adelaide would trade picks 10 and 14 in order to get pick 9 – stupid past imbecility stupid.
If the recruitment staff did that they’d have some bloody hard explaining to do.
It ranks right up there with giving two first round picks for Gibbs – when he was what 30?