Tasmania Devils announce first eight player signings

The Tasmania Devils, the AFL's 19th club scheduled to enter the league in 2028, have announced their first eight player signings. Utilizing AFL list concessions that allow the club to sign up to 12 pre-draft 17-year-old players, the team has secured a mix of interstate talent and local prospects.

Leading the group is Western Australian forward-ruck Axel Walsh, a highly touted prospect expected to be a top pick in the 2027 draft. Other signings include Victorians Jake Miller, Angus Brown, Riley Stratford, Baxter Sruk, Griffin Barker, and Nate Jenkins.

The club also secured the signature of Tasmanian native Hugh McCallum. Despite a recent knee injury, the 18-year-old wingman was a significant target for multiple AFL clubs but has agreed to bypass the current draft to join the Devils for their inaugural season. Coach Ken Hinkley expressed excitement regarding the talent and skill sets of the new group.