In the world of AFL, the National Draft is often a pivotal moment for clubs, determining their future success based on the talent they can recruit.
While high-profile picks often steal the spotlight, history shows that some of the most impactful players emerge from the later rounds.
This article highlights the biggest draft steals from every National Draft since 2010, focusing on selections that have defied expectations and become key contributors for their respective teams.
To qualify for this list, we have set specific criteria: no father/son selections or academy picks are included, ensuring that only the purest outcomes of the draft process are recognised.
Additionally, we focus on players who made significant contributions to the clubs that drafted them, excluding those like Jordan Dawson, who, despite being a late pick, truly flourished after moving to a different club.
From tenacious midfielders to dependable defenders, these late-round gems showcase the incredible value that can be found outside the top selections, underscoring the importance of astute recruiting in shaping a team's success.
12. 2021 - Jake Soligo (Adelaide Crows, Pick 36)
Jake Soligo, selected by the Adelaide Crows with the 36th overall pick in the 2021 AFL Draft, has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in the league.
His journey began in the Talent League with the Eastern Ranges, where he averaged an impressive 23 disposals per game throughout the 2021 season and finished strongly, amassing an average of 27 disposals in his final three matches.
Making his debut in Adelaide's first game of the 2022 season against Fremantle, Soligo entered the field as a substitute, collecting five disposals in a narrow loss. Despite a modest start, he quickly established himself as a valuable member of the Crows, playing 16 matches in his debut season and continuing to build on that foundation.
The 2023 season saw Soligo solidify himself as a mainstay midfielder in the competition. He played in all but one match, averaging 16.5 disposals and proving to be a reliable inside ball winner.
His efforts were recognised when he signed a six-year contract extension in June 2023, ensuring he would remain at Adelaide until at least 2029—the longest contract for any current Crows player at the time.
Heading into the 2024 season, Soligo faced a setback with an ankle injury during preseason training, limiting his game time initially. However, he made a significant impact upon his return, earning the Showdown Medal in the Round 8 clash against Port Adelaide, where he delivered a standout performance with 28 disposals and 10 tackles.
In recognition of his contributions this year, Soligo finished third in the Malcolm Blight Medal and received the Mark Bickley Emerging Talent Award, further establishing his place as one of the league's promising stars. Additionally, he was named in the 22under22 44-man squad for 2024, highlighting his league-wide recognition as an emerging talent.
Honourable mentions:
- Paul Curtis (North Melbourne Kangaroos, Pick 35)
- Matthew Roberts (Sydney Swans, Pick 34)
