Over the next week we will take a closer look at potential top 20 draftees ahead of the National Draft to be held on the Gold Coast on November 27.
The club will enter the National Draft with live selections at pick 17 and 20.
The following four youngsters are among those touted by draft experts as potential top 20 recruits.
Angus Brayshaw – Sandringham Dragons
Height: 187cm
Weight: 86kg
Brayshaw is a tough inside midfielder who is expected to be ready to step straight onto an AFL list and play senior football in 2015. Playing with the Dragons at TAC Cup level this season he has showcased an ability to win his own ball around the stoppages. Is a hardened body who shows a desperation to smother and tackle displaying his ability to be both a defensive and attacking midfielder. The 187cm midfielder is classy with both feet and is a natural ball winner. Brayshaw is expected to be taken in the top five in this year’s draft.
Jayden Laverde – Western Jets
Height: 189cm
Weight: 82kg
It was standout performances for Vic Metro at the U18’s national championships that elevated Laverde into contention as a top draft prospect. He is athletic for his size with the versatility to be able to play in a number of different roles. The smooth mover has the agility to find space along with pace and agility to set him apart from his opponents. He was named All Australian in the U18 championships after starring on the final day and is among the most versatile players in this year’s draft pool.
Nakia Cockatoo – NT Thunder
Height: 186cm
Weight: 86kg
The prospects of explosive midfielder/forward Nakia Cockatoo have risen in recent months despite missing the entire 2014 season with a foot injury. He put in a stunning best on ground performance in the under 18 All Stars curtain raiser to this year’s AFL Grand Final. He showcased his athletic ability during the Draft Combine when he won the repeat speed and kicking tests. An excitement machine that many clubs are looking at and is expected to be taking in the top 20 at this year’s draft meeting.
Lachie Weller – Broadbeach
Height: 181cm
Weight: 74kg
Full of class and with pace to burn Lachie Weller is full of athleticism and has many AFL club’s excited by his traits. The brother of St Kilda midfielder Mav Weller, he tested well in the 20-metre sprint (2.92) at the Draft Combine last month. Weller understands what it takes to make it at the elite level after being a member of the Gold Coast academy following moving to Queensland as a 15 year old. Could be taken early in the draft but is likely to slip beyond pick 10 and taken at the back end of the first round.
Each day this week essendonfc.com.au will prevew four draft prospects that are expected to be taken in the top 20 in this year's National Draft.
