Fremantle Dockers Star Murphy Reid Could Go Down as One of the Greatest Draft Steals Ever, Expert Says
Fremantle young gun Murphy Reid is on track to become one of the most remarkable steals in the history of the AFL draft, according to a pre-eminent junior talent expert. The smooth-mover has made a stunning start to his professional career, defying expectations after being selected with pick No.17 in the 2024 national draft.
Rising Star Success and Early Career Impact
Reid, now 19 years old, immediately made his mark by winning the league’s Rising Star award in his debut AFL season. In his second campaign, he has elevated his game further, highlighted by a classy 26-disposal performance in a stirring win over Adelaide on Good Friday. This effort was graded as a perfect 10 by Danielle Laidley in her player ratings for The West Australian, underscoring his rapid development and impact on the field.
Expert Analysis on Reid’s Draft Slide and Talent
Draft guru Mick Ablett expressed no doubt that Reid could be remembered as one of the biggest over-performers relative to his draft position in the modern era. We mentioned it on the broadcast and leading into that particular draft — he had the best footy IQ of that particular draft group, Ablett said. When you look at the way he plays, his understanding of the game, and his ability to see things unfold a fraction earlier than other players, that’s what set him apart as a kid, and that’s what we’re seeing him do at AFL level.
Ablett admitted surprise at Reid’s slide to pick 17, suggesting that questions about his speed and raw power might have influenced other clubs. However, he emphasized that Reid’s exceptional football intelligence and ability to slow the game down have translated seamlessly to the AFL, making him a standout player.
Comparison with Other Draft Picks and Team Strategies
Richmond used their first selection in the 2024 draft on Sam Lalor, who made an immediate impact by leading his side to an upset win over Carlton in his debut. The Tigers had four picks before Fremantle took Reid, opting for players like injury-prone Josh Smillie and Taj Hotton, as well as key forward Jonty Faull. Meanwhile, Carlton traded up to secure Jagga Smith at No.3, though Smith missed his first season due to an ACL injury before making a strong comeback with high disposal counts in recent games.
Insights from Former Coach Scott Watters
Former St Kilda coach Scott Watters recalled first noticing Reid’s talent during a junior league game in Melbourne. The thing that we’re seeing now is a player who just has sublime understanding and awareness of what’s around him and he’s incredibly creative, Watters said. He compared Reid’s spatial awareness and hand skills to legends like Scott Pendlebury, noting that such creativity is rare and beautiful to watch in young players.
Watters also praised Fremantle’s handling of Reid’s development, highlighting how the club’s experienced lineup allows him to avoid top defensive pressure, giving him space to thrive. To do what he’s doing so early in his career speaks volumes to his talent, but also the work he puts in behind the scenes. We’re seeing something, I think, pretty special, he added.
Fremantle’s Recruiting Success and Future Prospects
Reid’s instant success is part of a broader trend for Fremantle’s recruiting team, which has also found gems like Josh Treacy, Luke Ryan, Sam Switkowski, and Karl Worner from the rookie draft. Ablett credited recruiting lead David Walls for his no-fuss approach and keen eye for talent, noting that the Dockers have made few missteps in recent years. He pointed to mature-ager Isaiah Dudley as another success story, demonstrating the club’s ability to develop players who may have been overlooked earlier.
Lessons for AFL Recruiters
Reflecting on Reid’s draft-night slide, Ablett urged recruiters to focus more on players’ strengths rather than their weaknesses. I’m big on footballers and not just looking at athletic traits, because at the end of the day, that’s what we’re doing. We’re playing football, we’re not sending people to the Olympics, he said. This philosophy, he argued, could help identify more hidden talents like Reid in future drafts.
As Reid continues to impress in his second season, with increased midfield involvement and creative playmaking, experts and fans alike are watching closely. His journey from a mid-first-round pick to a potential AFL great serves as a compelling narrative in the world of sports, highlighting the unpredictable nature of draft selections and the importance of nurturing raw talent.
