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.

8. 2017 - Dylan Moore (Hawthorn Hawks, Pick 67)

Selected at pick No. 67 in the 2017 AFL draft, Dylan Moore has become one of the league's premier small forwards, evolving into one of the key figures of Hawthorn's future.

After overcoming early setbacks, including a shoulder injury that limited his opportunities in the VFL, Moore showcased his potential with a brilliant finals series for Box Hill in 2018.

He debuted for Hawthorn in 2019 and, despite showing flashes of his skill, faced uncertainty about his future at the end of the 2020 season. Retained on the rookie list, Moore seized the chance, transforming himself into a key forward and mid-forward rotation in 2021.

His 2021 season was a breakout, with Moore consistently impacting the scoreboard and starting to build his reputation for fearless play and high work rate.

Dylan Moore during the AFL match between Hawthorn and St Kilda in Round 4, 2022 (Photo by Cameron Grimes / Zero Digital Media)

In 2022, Moore continued to elevate his game, finishing third in Hawthorn's best and fairest count and establishing himself as a leader within the squad.

His career-best season came in 2024, where he kicked 36 goals, ranked second in the AFL for goal assists, and was awarded his first All-Australian selection in the forward pocket.

This effort also saw him finish as the runner-up in the Peter Crimmins Medal, solidifying his place as a club leader and key figure in Hawthorn's resurgence.

Honourable mentions:

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