AFL Draft Power Rankings Expand to 40 Players

The conclusion of the 2026 AFL National Championships has revealed the top prospects for this year's AFL draft, expanding the power rankings to include 40 players. The rankings reflect the depth of talent available, with several players making strong cases for top 10 selections.

Among the notable features are three key defenders within the top 15, a rarity in recent drafts. The rankings also showcase a variety of midfielders, half-backs, and small forwards, emphasizing athleticism as a key trait among the leading prospects. Players such as Tom Brown, Gabriel Patterson, and Jacob McNicol are highlighted as strong contenders just outside the top tier.

Several players have notably improved their draft stocks during the championships, including a standout performance from a Hawthorn Next Generation Academy prospect, who demonstrated significant skill and impact on the field. Other players, like Lochie Burrows and a powerful midfielder from South Australia, have also caught the attention of recruiters with their performances.