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.
14. 2023 - Lawson Humphries (Geelong Cats, Pick 63)
Lawson Humphries, selected by the Geelong Cats with the 63rd pick in the 2023 AFL Draft, has quickly established himself as a promising talent in the league.
With a unique background and strong performances since his debut, he stands out currently as one of the most significant steals from his draft class.
Born on April 24, 2003, and hailing from an Indigenous Australian heritage—specifically, Nyul Nyul, Oomiday, and Worrora—Humphries grew up in the Pilbara region and began his football journey playing for the Wickham Wolves. His move to Perth to attend Hale School allowed him to join the West Coast Eagles' next generation academy.
After winning a premiership with Swan Districts in the WAFL Colts in 2021 and a reserves premiership in 2023, he entered the AFL draft for the third time, finally securing his place with Geelong.
Humphries plays primarily as a defender, but his versatility allows him to impact the game in various roles. His elite ball use on either foot and decision-making skills have already made him a valuable asset for the Cats.
Following a strong start to his career in the VFL, Humphries made his AFL debut in Round 16 of the 2024 season against Essendon. He quickly impressed through the latter stages of the season, showcasing his talent across multiple metrics, ranking high among rising stars in marks per game, kicks per game, and metres gained per game.
He earned a Rising Star nomination after Round 18, and featured prominently in Geelong's 2024 finals campaign, being one of their best in the preliminary final loss to Brisbane.
Honourable mentions:
- Logan Morris (Brisbane Lions, Pick 31)
- Shaun Mannagh (Geelong Cats, Pick 36)
