DOB: 30 January 2007
From: Eastern Ranges, 2025 National Draft selection #11
Games: 0*
Goals: 0*
Defender drafted with Melbourne's top pick in the 2025 National Draft after a best in ground performance in Eastern Ranges' winning Under 18 Grand Final. He had previously represented Vic Metro.
Club: Eastern Ranges (Vic Metro)
DOB: 30 January 2007
Height: 192cm
Position: Defender
Background & Season
- Won best on ground in the 2025 Coates Talent League Grand Final with 25 disposals and 15 marks as Eastern Ranges defeated Sandringham Dragons 83-68
- Averaged 18 disposals and 6 marks across the season
- Represented Vic Metro at U16, U17 and U18 levels
- Named in one of five likely first-round draftees from Eastern Ranges' premiership team
- Interviewed by all 18 AFL clubs during the combine period
- Childhood Richmond supporter who modeled his game on Nick Vlastuin
- Has a demon caricature tattoo, making it "destiny" to wear red and blue
Playing Style
- Complete hybrid defender with lockdown, intercept and rebounding capabilities
- Can play on small forwards like Wes Walley and Hussien El Achkar, and taller types like Mitch Marsh and Max King
- Runs 20m sprint in under 3 seconds, giving him elite speed
- Compared to Josh Weddle for his intercept marking and run off half-back
- Ultra clean hands and composure when the ball hits the deck
- Can straight-line through packs and set up dangerous transition play
Draft Context
- Melbourne was thrilled when Taylor fell through to pick 11 after being projected top 10
- National Recruiting Manager Jason Taylor: "He plays with a lot of the aspects of footy you love... he plays with dare, courage, real speed and agility"
Lists
Other players
Media
foxsports.com.au - 15/11/2025
melbournefc.com.au - 19/11/2025
Links
RookieMe profile