Pandemic to impact AFL draft

GEELONG is armed with three first-round selections for the AFL draft but there is no guarantee it will have access to each of those picks in this year’s compromised talent pool.

The format of the draft is set to be different to any other year as a result of the coronavirus fallout, with fewer players almost certainly set to be recruited.

Geelong acquired two future first-round picks during last year’s draft to accompany its other selection.

The Cats also have one second-round selection as it stands, giving them four picks inside the top 35.

The club’s hand at the draft will likely depend on any AFL decision to shave back list sizes and when the trade period will be held.

“There’s still many things to consider, but I guess my job at the Cats is to keep thinking about the talent coming through via the draft,” Geelong talent ID manager Troy Selwood said.

“I’ll continue to provide the options and opportunities available to (list manager) Stephen Wells and our list management team about what’s available at the draft.”

AFL list sizes could come down to 35 as the league looks at cost-cutting measures caused by the COVID-19 shutdown.

Selwood said Geelong would explore its options with its picks.

“I think Wellsy over the last few years has been open to doing a range of things with our draft assets,” he said.

“There is still so much to play out.

“I guess a lot will also be dependent on how the season goes for the Cats this year and no doubt that will play a big part in the list management strategy going forward.”

Complicating the draft is that a large proportion of players are tied to AFL clubs as Next Generation Academy, father-son and northern academy prospects.

There is also the prospect clubs will have to select players off no games this year as there is uncertainty if the NAB League will go ahead.