Who were the biggest surprises in the 2025 AFL Draft?

Several unranked players and those ranked much lower were selected earlier than expected, causing major surprises.

Which player was drafted by Melbourne alongside Kysaiah Pickett's cousin?

Latrelle Pickett, cousin of Kysaiah Pickett, was drafted by the Melbourne Football Club.

What is an AFL Draft 'bolter'?

A 'bolter' is a player unexpectedly selected much earlier in the AFL Draft than pre-draft rankings predicted.

Home / Sports / AFL Draft Shocks: Bolters & Sliders Redefine 2025 Picks

AFL Draft Shocks: Bolters & Sliders Redefine 2025 Picks

20 Nov

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Summary

Several unranked players surprisingly selected in the 2025 AFL Draft.
Latrelle Pickett, cousin of Kysaiah Pickett, drafted by Melbourne.
Some players drafted much earlier than pre-draft rankings suggested.

AFL Draft Shocks: Bolters & Sliders Redefine 2025 Picks

The 2025 AFL Draft concluded with numerous surprises, showcasing a dynamic shift in player evaluations. Several prospects who were unranked or expected to be picked much later were selected earlier than anticipated, creating significant "bolter" moments.

Key unexpected selections included Oakleigh Chargers' Sam Grlj, taken by the Tigers at pick 8, and Latrelle Pickett, whose meteoric rise saw him drafted by Melbourne. Pickett, cousin to current Melbourne star Kysaiah Pickett, shared a special moment on stage as Kysaiah presented him with a guernsey, signaling a potential future partnership.

Other notable selections that defied pre-draft rankings include defender Thomas, taken by the Suns at pick 28 despite being ranked 45th, and midfielder Prindable, who went to Collingwood at pick 32 when ranked 80th. These selections highlight the unpredictable nature of the draft and the potential for hidden gems to emerge.