AFL Draft 2022: Melbourne offering three first-rounders to move up order

Melbourne is set to enter the draft at Pick 14, but is desperate to move up the order and is willing to put three first-rounders on the table to do so.

The Dees have their own future first and Fremantle’s from the Luke Jackson trade, and have identified the talent in the top five as worth a King’s ransom to move up.

But as of yet, there’s no takers. The Dockers and Demons finished 5th and 2nd respectively on the ladder last season, and are expected to challenge for the flag again in 2023 so their future first-rounders don’t carry as much weight as rebuilding clubs.

If the Dees can’t find a suitable trade partner on the first night, they may consider trading the option out for a future first rounder, or could take the best available on their board.

READ: The Inner Sanctum’s 2022 AFL Phantom Draft

Melbourne’s draft hand: 13, 37, 78, 83

At Pick 14 the Dees may be able to get the second-best key forward in the draft. Matt Jefferson spearheaded the Chargers and Vic Metro forward lines, providing a target and converting more accurately in the second half of the season.

With Sam Weideman’s exit, the Dees will need to look to the future in the forward line and Jefferson could prove to be a good fit next to Jacob Van Rooyen. 

Jacob Konstanty may appeal as one of the best role players in the draft – his pressure and tackling appetite as a small forward has clubs interested in the first round. 

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Additionally, Brayden George is one that clubs aren’t forgetting about despite his ACL tear. He’s a special talent in front of goal with aerial presence, composure with ball in hand and an accurate kick.

Later in the piece, Melbourne could look to Mitch Szybkowski for another contested midfielder that can ply his trade at Casey and claim a spot in the Dees’ midfield.

Highly rated coming into the year, Szybkowski hasn’t quite had the year of some of his Vic Country teammates but he has lightning hands in congestion and is a big body.

Adam D’Aloia may also appeal as a similar type, while Isaac Keeler has superstar traits but needs a professional environment to unlock his potential as a ruck-forward hybrid.

Melbourne will only use the two selections in the draft after foregoing the option to nominate NGA prospect Finn Emile-Brennan.

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