AFL Fantasy Draft Track Watch 19/01/25
AFL Fantasy Draft season is heating up, and staying updated on the latest preseason news can make all the difference when crafting your ultimate squad.
To help you stay ahead, we've rounded up the biggest player updates of the week, including some names that could reshape your draft rankings.
These updates aren't just hype—they're backed by player interviews, track watchers, training performances, and insights straight from the track. Let's break it down.
Ollie Hollands
The unfortunate injury to Nic Newman this week leaves a glaring vacancy in Carlton's defensive structure. While many eyes are understandably on stalwarts like Sam Docherty and new recruit Nick Haynes, it's time to turn attention to Ollie Hollands.
Hollands has spent significant time playing off half-back in recent practice matches. With Newman's absence, don't be surprised if he steps into a larger role. His growing versatility and ability to hit targets make him a serious draft prospect. For those of us already flagging him as a breakout candidate before the injury, this news elevates his importance even further.
Verdict: Add Hollands to your draft shortlist, particularly if you're looking to build depth in defense.
Kysiah Pickett
Whispers out of Melbourne training this week suggest Kysaiah Pickett is making a serious push for midfield time. Reports show the explosive Demon matching up against contested beast Clayton Oliver in midfield drills—a huge sign of intent.
The numbers tell an exciting story too. Last year, Pickett played two games with 70% or more center-bounce attendances (CBAs), scoring 84 and 95 in those outings. With limited forward options in AFL Fantasy this year, any hint of increased midfield minutes for Pickett could make him a draft steal.
Verdict: Pickett's upside could be massive. Keep a close eye on his preseason performances.
Cam Guthrie
Cam Guthrie appears to be all systems go in Geelong's preseason training. Spotted in the "A team" during drills, Guthrie has earned glowing reviews—including some glowing praise from his brother, Zach Guthrie, who stated that Cam is looking good to go for preseason matches.
That said, Guthrie's injury history makes him one to tread carefully with. The signs are promising, but it’s best to temper expectations until we see him complete a full preseason schedule.
Verdict: Proceed with caution, but if Guthrie stays fit, he remains a solid midfield option in deeper drafts.
Matt Johnson
One look at Matt Johnson in preseason photos (refer above), and you'll know why he's on this list. The man has been hitting the gym hard, and his "ridiculous shape" has even drawn praise from teammate Caleb Serong.
Serong highlighted Johnson's physicality in training and suggested that he, along with Neil Erasmus, will take on more of role this season that involves needing to “hit bodies and be really physical”.
When Johnson got the chance to shine last year (during games where Nat Fyfe played as the sub), he posted scores of 85 and 97. If Fyfe’s inside minutes are reduced this season, Johnson might just step into a more prominent role.
Verdict: Worth a bench spot in deeper leagues. His physicality and inside presence could lead to significant fantasy upside.
Dylan Shiel
Essendon fans have reason to feel optimistic about Dylan Shiel heading into the new season. Reports from match simulations highlight Shiel excelling through both the midfield and half-back.
While his injury history raises red flags, Shiel has the ability to impact games when fit. His split-role versatility makes him a decent late-round option for drafters willing to take a calculated risk.
Verdict: Consider Shiel as a high-reward gamble for your midfield depth late in the draft.
Josh Rachele
Josh Rachele was a preseason darling last year but landed on many managers' "never again" list after failing to live up to the hype. However, word from Adelaide camp suggests a potential turnaround is in the works.
With Rankine spending large chunks of drills in the midfield, a forward-heavy role looks likely for Rachele. Teammates are singing his praises in preseason chats, which might suggest a higher ceiling than last year's disappointment. Optimism is warranted, especially since we’re starved for exciting forward options this season.
Verdict: Worth considering, especially if your forward slots are light. Sometimes, the second year delivers the breakout.
Josh Rachele
Who Am I?
My last three games of the regular season I went 118, 97 and 98
Post bye last year my average was 92
I am not currently being selected inside the top 10 forwards
I have been burning up the track during match simulation playing a mix of midfield and forward this week.
Ok, the answer was given away by the name and picture above but Connor Macdonald has barely put a foot wrong since the bye last year to today and we at AFL Draft Pros are getting more excited about what he can produce this year by the week.
Verdict: A secret premium forward option available to us in AFL Fantasy Draft when we needed one the most.
Key Takeaways for AFL Fantasy Draft Players
Smart drafting is all about adjusting to the latest intel, and this week's updates provide plenty of fodder for your draft-day decisions. Here are the key takeaways:
Prioritise Ollie Hollands for defensive depth, particularly with Nic Newman’s absence opening the door for a bigger role.
Bet on upside with Kysaiah Pickett if you need forwards who could gain midfield minutes.
Stay cautious with Cam Guthrie but keep him on your radar for mid- to late-round selections.
Mark Matt Johnson as a sleeper pick, especially if Fyfe's role shifts away from the midfield.
Roll the dice on Dylan Shiel for midfield depth if he continues to perform consistently in preseason.
Be open to give Josh Rachele another chance, especially as forward options are scarce.
Connor Macdonald is shaping as a premium option for our forward lines.