A panel of recruiters from ten AFL clubs and junior coaches released a ranking of the 2026 Australian Football League draft class, evaluating performance, potential, injury risk and intangibles. The list highlights several high‑profile prospects.
Cochrane, a knee‑injured player expected to return for Port Adelaide’s SANFL side, is described as the top prospect, praised for his athleticism, marking, kicking and decision‑making. Butler, possibly the first player selected without club affiliation, is noted for exceptional kicking and forward craft but faces questions about endurance after a broken collarbone. Van Hattum, a ruckman likened to Sean Darcy, stands out for rare kicking ability and follow‑up work, though selectors caution about his athletic ceiling.
The summary also names other near‑misses such as Benji van Rooyen, Marlon Neocleous and Koby LeCras, and mentions academy products like Aidan McCartney and Mason McGroder who are on clubs’ radars.
Entities: Australian Football League · Butler (prospect) · Cochrane (prospect) · Port Adelaide Football Club · Van Hattum (prospect)