2008 AFL Draft Review - Carlton Blues

After landing the biggest fish in the league, Chris Judd, and getting off the bottom end of the ladder for the first time in a few years, Carlton went into this year’s draft looking to supplement their young list with even more talent. High on the agenda was a quality small forward who could provide another option to take some of the heat off Brendan Fevola. In Chris Yarran, the Blues feel they have done just this.

Trading their 2nd round pick for young Fremantle ruckman Robbie Warnock means Carlton only had 4 selections in the draft - 6, 40, 65 and 80. Let’s take a closer look at who they selected:

Pick No. 6 – Chris Yarran

Carlton are exceptionally rapt to pick up Yarran at 6. Blessed with great pace, sure hands and beautiful skills on both sides of his body, the Blues are hoping that he will be able to step straight into league football in a crumbing forward role played so well by Hawthorn’s Cyril Rioli this season. Has had experience playing against the men in the WAFL this season, kicking 7 goals on debut, leading his club’s goal kicking, and highlighted by a 5 goal performance in a Semi Final.

Yarran should be able to slot into a forward pocket role very early in 2009, providing much needed help for Fevola and Eddie Betts. While he doesn’t yet have the tank to run through the midfield for extended periods of time, the Blues are definitely keen for him to develop this in his game and are very excited with what the future may hold.

Pick No. 40 – Mitch Robinson

Ratten publicly acknowledges the Blues rated Robinson as a possible top 10 pick and believe he could be the steal of the draft. Robinson had a wonderful carnival for Tasmania, where his draft stocks rose considerably. A tallish winger/midfielder, he can get his own footy in close as well as providing an excellent option as a link-up player. Good work rate, good endurance, and good skills. Doesn’t especially stand out in any one area but does all things well, and should be a solid player for many years to come. Also has VFL experience with the Tassie Devils so don’t be surprised if he pushes for selection in his debut year.

Pick No. 65 - Rhys O’Keefe

 

 
O’Keefe is a running half back flanker with good pace and excellent skills on both sides of his body - especially his long and accurate left foot kick. Was impressive at the carnival for South Australia, where he got a lot of the ball and used it well. Has good discipline and work rate also. Looks a very good pick-up at 65 for the Blues and should play a lot of senior footy in the future.

Pick No. 80 – Caleb Tiller

 

 
Tiller is a young, developing medium sized forward/flanker. Had a good season with the Murray Bushrangers and showed he knows how to receive the footy and kicked multiple goals in a few games. Provides a good option on the lead, but does need to work on his kicking. Was used at half back and on the wing at times so won’t necessarily be a forward in the AFL. Project type who is doubtful to see action in 2009.

Carlton coach Brent Ratten had the following to say after the Draft:

I thought we’ve done extremely well with what our needs factor was and what we’re after. Yarran’s got outstanding talent and Robinson, we thought he’d be in the top 10 and to get him at 40, that might be the bargain of the draft. And also, O’Keefe — he kicks the ball magnificently, beautifully-balanced player … Tiller, he’s a real mobile 17-year-old.

Compared to the past few years, it was a reasonably quiet draft for the Blues, but they are very happy with the players they were able to acquire. Yarran is a chance for round 1 action and looks a perfect fit for the Blues forward line. Robinson looks an excellent pick up at pick 40 as he does everything well, if not spectacular. O’Keefe is a smart player suited to the AFL style and a more than worthwhile pick up at 65, while at 80 they have a young player with talent to work with in Tiller. Add the addition of Warnock to the list and the Blues have made some great additions for the 2009 season.

The only real surprise is that the Blues didn’t look to get a key position prospect as it is an area where they are still lacking, although after they took Yarran at 6, any that they did pick up would be unlikely to contribute for at least a couple of years.

Agree with our analysis of the Carlton draft selections? I know there’s a ton of Blues fans out there - leave us a comment with your opinions and expectations for 2009!