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AFL Draft Time 2025: Your Complete Guide to the Biggest Night in Football
As the AFL season concludes and the off-season begins, all eyes turn to one of the most anticipated events on the football calendar: the AFL National Draft. For fans, recruiters, and aspiring players, "AFL Draft Time" represents the culmination of years of hard work, strategic planning, and high-stakes decision-making. In 2025, the stakes are higher than ever, with a new generation of talent ready to make their mark on the AFL.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the upcoming AFL Draft, including key dates, the top prospects, club strategies, and how to follow the action live.
Understanding the AFL Draft: The Gateway to the Big League
The AFL Draft is the primary mechanism through which Australian Rules Football clubs recruit new players. It allows for a fair and equitable distribution of emerging talent across the 18 clubs, ensuring the competitive balance of the league.
How the Draft Works
The AFL Draft is more than just calling out names. It involves a complex system of: - Priority Picks: Extra selections awarded to struggling clubs to help them rebuild. - Academy Bidding: Clubs can bid on players from their affiliated academies (e.g., NSW/ACT, Queensland, Northern Territory). - Father-Son Bidding: Sons of former players can be selected by their father's club, provided other clubs place bids.
Understanding these nuances is crucial for fans following the draft, as it dictates the flow of the night and the final order of selections.
The 2025 AFL Draft Landscape
The 2025 draft pool is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years. While the exact order is still being determined by the AFL’s official release, speculation is rife among experts and insiders.
Top Prospects to Watch
Based on reports from ESPN and industry insiders, the 2025 draft class is headlined by a group of highly skilled and athletic players.
Willem Duursma and Zeke Uwland AFL.com.au highlighted a massive night looming, particularly involving the top five picks. The names Willem Duursma and Zeke Uwland have been frequently mentioned in the same breath. These brothers are dynamic talents, with elite skills and game-breaking speed. The "big decision" facing them and the clubs interested in them adds a layer of intrigue to the proceedings. The Gold Coast Suns, holding the second pick, are widely expected to snap up one of these stars.
Harry Dean ESPN's Phantom Draft suggests Harry Dean is a key target for the Carlton Blues. Described as a tall, intercepting defender, Dean fills a critical need for the Blues. The report indicates Carlton is keen to secure him, potentially even trading up to ensure they land their man.
The Adelaide Crows' Strategy The Adelaide Crows hold the 12th pick in the draft. According to official reports from afc.com.au, the club is feeling "confident" in its first-round prospects. They have done extensive homework on the players available in their range. The Crows are looking for a player who can make an immediate impact to help them push for finals contention in 2026.
Key Dates and Timings
For fans planning to tune in, knowing the schedule is essential. The AFL Draft typically spans two days, with the first round being the main event.
- Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2025 (Note: Dates are indicative based on the standard AFL schedule; always check the official AFL website for confirmation).
- Time: The draft usually commences at 7:00 PM AEDT.
- Where to Watch: The event is broadcast live on Fox Footy and streamed via Kayo Sports and the AFL Live Official App.
Club Strategies: Who Needs What?
The draft is as much about club needs as it is about player talent. Here’s a look at the strategic landscape for key clubs.
Carlton Blues: The Search for Key Position Talent
As mentioned in AFL.com.au's "Draft Countdown" recap, the Blues are set for a busy night. With the 8th pick, they are in a prime position to draft a key defender like Harry Dean. Their strategy appears focused on shoring up their backline to support their potent forward line.
Gold Coast Suns: Securing Local Talent
The Suns are in the box seat with the 2nd overall pick. They are heavily linked with the highly touted Academy players. Securing a top-end talent from their own backyard is a priority for the club's long-term development.
Adelaide Crows: Targeting the Best Available Player
Holding the 12th pick, the Crows are in a sweet spot. They can afford to take the best player available, regardless of position. Their confidence, as reported on their official website, suggests they have identified a clear target who fits their system and culture.
The Draft Night Experience: What to Expect
The AFL Draft is a drama-filled evening that captivates the nation. Here’s the typical flow of events:
- The Opening Bids: The night often starts with bidding on father-son and academy prospects. This can be a tense tactical battle between clubs.
- The First Round: The first 10-12 picks are where the major trade discussions and live decisions happen. This is where the "bush telegraph" comes alive, with journalists reporting on picks minutes before they are officially announced.
- The Mid-Round Lull: As the draft progresses into the second and third rounds, the pace can slow, but this is often where clubs find hidden gems.
- The Final Rounds: The draft concludes with the later selections, many of which are rookie elevations or rookie draft picks.
How to Follow the AFL Draft Live
You don't have to be at Marvel Stadium to feel the tension. Here’s how you can stay across every move:
- Live Television Coverage: Fox Footy provides wall-to-wall coverage, including expert analysis and live interviews with draftees and recruiters.
- Digital Coverage: The AFL website and app offer a live pick-by-pick blog.
- Social Media: Following club recruiters and expert journalists on X (formerly Twitter) is the best way to get news before it’s officially announced. The "bush telegraph" is incredibly fast and often accurate.
The Impact of the Draft on Club Success
History shows that a successful draft is the foundation of a dynasty. Clubs like Hawthorn (2004-2008) and Richmond (2013-2017) built their premiership teams through shrewd draft picks.
For the 2025 draftees, the journey is just beginning. While the spotlight is intense on draft night, the real test comes in the years that follow. Adjusting to the rigours of elite training, managing the physical demands of the AFL, and dealing with media pressure are all part of the transition.
Conclusion: A Night of Dreams
The AFL Draft is more than just a list of names; it is a night of hope and dreams realised. For the players selected, it is the reward for a lifetime of dedication. For the clubs, it is the first step towards future success. For the fans, it is the ultimate sneak peek into the future of their beloved team.
As the 2025 draft approaches, the excitement builds. Keep an eye on the official club websites and AFL.com.au for the latest verified news. Whether you are a Crows fan confident in your team's strategy, a Blues supporter eager for a new key defender, or a neutral observer enjoying the drama, the AFL Draft Time is the place to be.
Stay tuned for the official release of the draft order and the final phantom drafts to get the most accurate picture of how the night might unfold.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available as of November 2025. The AFL draft order and player selections are subject to change based on official AFL announcements and trade movements.