Willem Duursma has shot to number one in the latest Craft of the Draft Power rankings.
The rankings were the primary discussion point on the latest Craft of the Draft podcast, with analyst Jonty Ralphsmith explaining that the Gippslander's National Championships were a decisive factor in his rise.
“I think he's answered the questions that did exist about him early in the season,” Ralphsmith said.
“Contested ball-winning really impressive, we've seen the versatility, and when he was unleashed through the midfield, he was really impressive and probably played his best game for Vic Country.
“Then he goes to VFL level and his intercepting is really, really good.”
Carlton father-son prospect Harry Dean was a big mover, breaching the top 10 after a similarly impressive National Carnival down back.
“He hasn't put a foot wrong playing for Vic Country
“He got better with every game he played, he kept (increasing) the standard – he's got it all.”
Eastern Ranges small forward Lachy Dovaston was a player ranked higher than the consensus, coming in at number 13, having kicked 26 goals in the Coates League in 2025.
“I think in a crop there's such a gap between Lachy Dovaston as the next best small forward, there's others who have announced themselves like Talor Byrne and Zane Peucker in there as well and Hudson Walker, but the gap between Dovaston and those three is quite great,” Ralphsmith said.
“I think that could push him up a little bit.
“If you look at basic supply and demand – if there's great demand for something and little supply, that's naturally going to push the price up.”
For the full rundown of the talking points of the power rankings, as well as the big weekend performances and more talent pathway and draft news and analysis, check out the full video: August Power Rankings + Combine lists drop | Craft of the Draft AFL - YouTube
