The West Coast Eagles have made a significant addition to their playing list, securing South Fremantle midfielder Fred Rodriguez with the prized first selection in the AFL rookie draft.
From Draft Snub to Eagle
In a move that surprised few who followed his impressive draft year, Fred Rodriguez found a new home at the West Coast Eagles on Friday, November 21, 2025. This came after the tough Bulldogs midfielder was unexpectedly overlooked during the national draft held the previous night.
Rodriguez's omission was considered a surprise given his outstanding credentials. He had captained the Western Australian state team and earned coveted Under-18 All-Australian honours, marking him as one of the country's most promising young talents.
A Proven Performer on the Field
The Eagles' decision to pounce on Rodriguez is backed by compelling on-field data. During the colts season for South Fremantle, he was a dominant force, averaging 25.3 disposals, 5.5 tackles, and a goal across eight games.
His athletic prowess was further confirmed at the National Draft Combine, where he posted a terrific result in the 2km time trial. Rodriguez completed the gruelling run in 6 minutes and 20 seconds, finishing seventh overall and demonstrating the elite fitness he would bring to the AFL.
Building for the Future
This acquisition continues a strategic list build for West Coast, which now includes Rodriguez, four Victorian draftees, and Next Generation Academy product Tylah Williams.
In other list management decisions, the club opted against signing Subiaco forward Wes Walley as a Category-B rookie, despite having both a list spot and first access to him.
The Eagles are set to finalise their playing roster on Monday, with the expected signings of former Brisbane midfielder Deven Robertson, as well as Harry Schoenberg (Adelaide) and Fin Macrae (Collingwood) through the pre-season supplemental selection period.
