With the AFL 2022 National Draft coming up later this month, and the Rookie Draft shortly afterwards, eyes are turning towards the country's state leagues in addition to the junior competitions.
According to AFL Media's Cal Twomey, there are two standout VFL players that should turn the heads of a few AFL club list managers.
Port Melbourne Defender Ethan Phillips is set to attract some interest after a strong season at the Borough, with the defender claiming a second consecutive Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal, the award given to the VFL's rising star equivalent.
"Ethan Phillips is a defender who won the Rising Star in that competition," Twomey said on SEN Sportsday.
"We know that's sort of been a breeding ground, every one of the last 15 or so winners get drafted, so he's one that's been on the radar of clubs.โ
Another VFL player attracting interest is Footscray captain Lachie Sullivan, with the Bulldogs reportedly keen to upgrade the young pup to their AFL list ahead of the 2023 season.
โThey (the Western Bulldogs) are another club who like to bring through their Footscray graduates over time," Twomey said.
โWhether it's the Dogs for him or another club, I think he's one that clubs are having a look at.โ
Due to the introduction of the mid-season draft in 2019, the number of VFL-listed players being selected in the National and Rookie draft has decreased. In 2018, five VFL players were taken in the National Draft, however, that number has dropped to only two players in the last three seasons.
The AFL National Draft will be held across two days on November 28th and 29th, while the Rookie Draft will be held the following evening.
