2027 AFL Academy Squad Unveiled

The 2027 AFL Academy squad, consisting of 25 players, was announced on Wednesday, featuring nine club-tied athletes.

Leading the squad are Port Adelaide's Zemes Pilot and Louis Salopek, along with defenders Zane Adams and Henry Allsop from Hawthorn, Koby Bewick from Essendon, and Brisbane's Jackson Bridge and Max Holden. GWS' Coen Hardy is also included. Salopek, whose father is a former player for Port Adelaide, and Pilot are expected to attract early bids in the draft, with Port Adelaide holding three first-round picks.

Among the squad is Tasmanian Jake Beams, tied to the Devils as a local talent, and Jett Flower, a utility from Eastern Ranges and grandson of Melbourne legend Robbie Flower. Flower has been recognized for his performance at the Under-18s National Championships and the Under-17s Futures game. Tasmania has pre-selected seven players from this group, impacting the draft strategy of other clubs, which are cautious about entering the draft heavily next year.