Ethan Drever Enters 2026 AFL Draft Pool

The standout midfielder joins the draft following a decorated season with Vic Country and the GWV Rebels.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Hockey

Live Poll

Should your local sports teams prioritize recruiting players who grew up as lifelong fans of them?

Midfielder Ethan Drever has officially entered the 2026 AFL draft pool after a strong campaign that saw him earn selection in the Under 18 All-Australian team. Essendon is reportedly considering him for a selection.

Why it matters

Drever is a top draft prospect following his standout performance in the 2026 season where he dominated midfield metrics for both Vic Country and the GWV Rebels. His ability to impact the game across multiple statistical categories has caught the attention of professional clubs.

Drever averaged 28.2 disposals, 6.5 tackles and 5.5 inside 50s across 13 games for the GWV Rebels. He also contributed 12 goals throughout the season while maintaining 20.0 disposals for Vic Country.

The players

Ethan Drever

He is a highly-rated midfield prospect who earned Under 18 All-Australian honours in 2026.

Essendon

This professional Australian rules football club competes in the AFL and is currently evaluating draft prospects.

Nev Swayne

He serves as the midfield coach for the GWV Rebels and provided technical development for Drever.

David Loader

He is a coach at the GWV Rebels who helped refine Drever's midfield craft.

The details

After winning the Vic Country and GWV Rebels MVP awards, Drever completed a training programme targeting lower-body strength and plyometrics to improve his speed. He also engaged in technical sessions with coaches Nev Swayne and David Loader while interviewing with Richmond, West Coast, and Essendon.

During the 2026 season, Drever starred for Vic Country and the GWV Rebels.
Throughout summer 2026, Drever focused on adding size and improving his 0-20m pace.
In 2027, Drever aims to secure a Round 1 debut spot.

Football
Oct. 20
AFL Draft To See Essendon Bid For Dougie Cochrane
Youth
Oct. 16
Northern Academy Players Dominate AFLW Combine
Football
Oct. 14
Richmond Secured Pick 5 in Port Adelaide Trade

Season Trajectory

Drever's entry into the draft pool highlights the current focus on high-production midfielders in the 2026 class. His progression mirrors that of established AFL stars who dominated the junior ranks before making an immediate impact at the senior level.

Essendon is expected to bid on Dougie Cochrane at Pick 1, meaning Drever may be targeted for their subsequent selection. His speed improvement programme suggests he is being prepared for an immediate transition to the professional pace of the 2027 season.

The takeaway

Draft prospects often see their stock rise significantly after dedicated off-season programmes aimed at specific athletic markers. Players who show versatility across both league and regional representative levels typically enjoy better outcomes during the selection process.