The 2007 AFL Draft is recognised as one of the most remarkable in the league’s history, yielding numerous accolades, including seven club captains, two Brownlow Medallists, elite key defenders, multiple best and fairest winners, and five future Hall of Famers.
Currently, only three players remain active from this draft: Taylor Walker (Adelaide), Callan Ward (GWS), and Patrick Dangerfield (Geelong), the latter poised to play his 350th game soon. Dangerfield’s illustrious career sees him as an eight-time All-Australian and a 2016 Brownlow Medal recipient, while guiding Geelong to a premiership in 2022.
In a redraft scenario, Dangerfield emerges as the clear first choice, marking an unparalleled career with consistent excellence since 2012. Originally, Matthew Kreuzer was the consensus number one pick, having a notable history with Carlton but plagued by injuries, which ultimately led him to miss the top re-selection.
Notable mention goes to Easton Wood, a premiership captain for the Western Bulldogs, who is also excluded from the top ten. The draft exhibited an exceptional depth of ruckmen, with players like Ben McEvoy and Shane Mumford making significant impacts in their respective teams.
The re-drafted top players include Dangerfield at one, followed by Trent Cotchin and Alex Rance. Cotchin, the 2012 Brownlow Medallist, has had a more extended career compared to Rance, which influenced his ranking.
Cyril Rioli, despite a premature retirement, made a substantial mark during his time, cementing a place at five. The list also highlights enduring talents like Taylor Walker, a top goal scorer for Adelaide, and Callan Ward, a key figure for GWS.
In total, the draft stands out as an impactful contributor to AFL’s narrative, with five players – Dangerfield, Cotchin, Rance, Walker, and Rioli – likely bound for future Hall of Fame recognition. The 2007 draft undeniably reshaped the leagues’ dynamics and introduced a stellar array of talent that will be remembered for years to come.