Harley Reid is the unanimous best player in this year's draft class and will be chosen No. 1 overall by whichever team ultimately holds the prized selection on November 20.

The Bendigo Pioneers product is one of the most fawned-over prospects in recent draft memory, possessing a lethal arsenal of weapons and an ability to play just about anywhere on the field.

Reid, whose best position of deployment is undoubtedly through the middle of the ground, doesn't just invite physicality at the contest; he thrives on it.

The big-bodied ball-getter is frequently seen fending off opposition tacklers in a fashion eerily reminiscent of Richmond legend and 'don't-argue' merchant Dustin Martin.

The pair possess a very similar frame, too, adding to the tantalising comparison.

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 15: Harley Reid of the AFL Academy in action during the match between the AFL Academy and Port Adelaide Magpies at Summit Sports Park on April 15, 2023 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Further, Reid's ability to go forward and impact the scoreboard is undeniable; having staged a three-goal first-quarter effort in Vic Country's clash against South Australia during this year's National Championships.

During the tournament, the Tongala native managed an average of 19.5 disposals, 12.5 contested possessions, and 6.5 clearances to finish third in the Larke Medal voting. Reid also took out Victoria Country's MVP award.

One of Reid's underrated traits? He's also a very impressive overhead marker, showcasing his ability to pluck a contested grab amid a crowded pack. See his hanger while playing for Essendon's VFL side this year.

As well as the Bombers' reserves, Reid also suited up for Carlton VFL and his hometown Tongala, in addition to captaining the Pioneers and co-captaining Vic Country throughout a busy year for the prodigious midfielder.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 06: Harley Reid of Carlton
runs with the ball during the round seven VFL match between Carlton Blues and Brisbane Lions at Ikon Park on May 06, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Whether it's playing for West Coast, North Melbourne, or elsewhere, Reid figures to impose himself on the AFL from the get-go.

Position:ย Midfielder
Height: 187cm
Weight: 85kg
State:ย Victoria
Club:ย Tongala

Strengths

  • Contested game
  • Physicality
  • Versatility
  • Cleanliness

Draft Range

  • Pick 1

Potential Landing Spots

AFL Comparison

Expert comments

"[He's] an exciting prospect ... who continued to build his reputation as a unique prospect," said AFL Talent Ambassador Kevin Sheehan.

"He confirmed his ability to impact the game whether [playing] forward, midfield or down back. [He] starred throughout the Championships playing in the midfield and changing forward, with his ability to win the contested ball at ground level or overhead among his many weapons.

"An excellent decision-maker and ball user by hand or foot, he averaged 19.5 disposals, 12.5 contested possessions and 6.5 clearances [during the Championships].

"[Reid] further added to his very impressive record by earning selection in the All-Australian team for the second year in a row.

"[He] handled the step up to playing senior football with three impressive games in the VFL and was the best player for the Australia under 18s team in its match against Port Adelaide's SANFL team, which showed he is ready for AFL."