Oakleigh Chargers defender Josh Weddle is a potential first-round selection out of Templestowe, offering impressive services as a damaging two-way defender.

Standing at 192cm tall, Weddle is able to negate his direct opponent - whether they be small or tall - with his prolific lockdown defending and aerial ability.

While firming as a strong option at the defensive end, Weddle is also an aggressive outlet as a rebounding backman, helping his side quickly switch from defence to offence in a flash.

Weddle's Draft Combine results saw him rank among the top five for both the 2km time trial and the running vertical jump, showing off his long-distance running and athletic ability in front of AFL scouts.

His season for Oakleigh garnered an average return of 12.8 disposals, 4.5 marks, 2.2 tackles, 1.7 rebounds 50s and 1.4 inside 50s from his six NAB League matches this year, while his numbers for Vic Metro in the National Championships were even more impressive.

Coming up against the most talented teenagers saw Weddle thrive, where his numbers for disposals, tackles and rebounds 50s all lifted as Vic Metro went on to secure the title.

His strong intercepting ability and 90+kg frame places Weddle drawing similarities to Brisbane backman Marcus Adams, who has developed into one of the AFL's best defensive aerial assets.

As far as potential landing spots, Collingwood could consider the 18-year-old with their opening selection at Pick 16, or wait until their next selection nine spots later.

West Coast (Picks 20 and 26) are in a similar situation, while Carlton will be hopeful he slides to their second-round selection at 29th overall.

Position: Tall Defender
State: Victoria Metro
State League Club: Oakleigh Chargers
Community Club: Templestowe
Date of Birth: 25/05/04
Height: 192cm
Weight: 91kg

Strengths

Aerial Ability
Intercepting
Versatility
Rebound
Endurance

Weaknesses

Disposal
Decision Making

Draft Range

Late First Round to Early Second Round

Potential Landing Spots

Collingwood (Pick 16, 25), West Coast (Pick 20, 26), Essendon (Pick 22), Carlton (Pick 29)

AFL Comparisons

Marcus Adams
Jack Henry
Paddy McCartin

Expert comments

"Rock solid in defence in all matches for Victoria Metro. Averaged 15 disposals, four marks, three tackles and four rebound 50s per game in an impressive Championships and won All-Australian honours. His intercept marking, strength one-on-one and dash from the back half are features of his game." - Kevin Sheehan