Got a couple of defenders in this one:
https://www.espn.com.au/afl/story/_/id/ ... iders-more
Pies Bid matched: Gold Coast - Will Graham
SUNS Academy/Allies MID/DEF, 186cm, 81kg
ESPN draft rank: 35
Graham has received an invitation to Marvel Stadium so clubs are considering placing a bid in the first round. It makes sense, given Graham's speed, physicality and composure form an exciting package for a midfielder. He also played off halfback where his defensive instincts were impressive for the Allies.
25. Collingwood - Luamon Lual (pronunciation: Loo-mon Loo-al)
GWV Rebels/Vic Country DEF, 181cm, 71kg
ESPN draft rank: 26
Lual is right in the first-round frame, and his athletic profile and ball use would suit the reigning premiers to a tee. The Rebels defender plays above his height with an excellent vertical leap, intercepting and kick-starting transition with neat ball use. Lual is a Western Bulldogs NGA prospect but can only be matched after pick 40.
If not Lual? The Pies have been heavily linked to Koltyn Tholstrup but the physical forward will likely be gone by this stage. Talls Archer Reid and Wil Dawson may come into calculations, but are more likely to be taken in the second round.
36. Collingwood - Wil Dawson (pronunciation: Door Son, as in shut the bloody door son)
Gippsland Power/Vic Country DEF, 200cm, 86kg
ESPN draft rank: 44
Dawson has suitors in the second round with the key defender demonstrating impressive touch below his knees for a defender of his size. He's played through the ruck and had stints up forward, but it's as a key defensive pillar where his strength and instincts are best utilised. The Pies have a need for height down back and have been linked to the stout tall.