Jacob Edwards is not a name many people remember, but the former North Melbourne ruckman is keen on reviving his AFL career.
Edwards was selected by the Kangaroos with Pick 1 in the 2021 Mid-Season Draft after he was overlooked in the 2020 National Draft.
The Sandringham Dragons product impressed, standing at 202cm and playing as a ruck-forward in the now-named Talent League.
However, Edwards never debuted in the AFL and was delisted by the end of 2023, returning to local football.
He signed with Cheltenham in the Southern Football Netball League (SFNL), playing in the past three grand finals against Dingley and winning two of those contests.
Edwards also shared a club best-and-fairest with former Saint Jack Lonie.
“I feel like when I stopped playing at North, I didn't really have any ambitions to go back there (AFL), but playing at Chelt and playing some good footy, that love and that ambition have come back," Edwards said to the Herald Sun.
“I'm just keen to give it one more crack, start in the VFL and see where I can go from there.
“I've matured, I guess. Being that bit more mature has helped me play against some bigger bodies and older guys."
The SFNL is a high level of football, but Edwards hasn't played VFL since 2023 for the Kangaroos.
North Melbourne recruiting manager Mark Finnigan noted at the time of Edwards' drafting his strengths as a key target.
“He fills a need on our list at 202cm, and gives us flexibility as a key forward or ruckman – both positions he's excelled at in NAB League and school footy," Finnigan said.
“His contested marking has been a strength, he reads the play well and his kicking ability for his size, in general play or for goal, is a real asset."
