Brandon Leary skips AFL draft to secure spot in Tasmania's inaugural team
Mature-age player Brandon Leary has declined the 2026 draft to secure a place on Tasmania's inaugural AFL list.
Brandon Leary, 23, has attracted interest from Adelaide, Geelong and Collingwood ahead of the 2026 draft. Leary has notified those clubs he will not nominate for the draft.
Leary has been given an indication that a spot is available for him on Tasmania's inaugural AFL team starting in 2028. The move uses Tasmania's golden ticket scheme.
Up to four VFL-listed players can be added directly to the AFL list without going through the draft. Leary thrived in his first VFL season as a mid-forward, kicking goals and helping his team reach the finals.
Leary was overlooked in the 2022 draft after a strong under-18 campaign. He has since starred for North Launceston, kicking 58 goals in 15 games last year.
Tasmania will announce its first batch of players at a Hobart gala night on September 29, where up to eight under-17 prospects will be signed as inaugural Devils.
- 23 years old
- Leary's age
- 58 goals in 15 games
- Goals kicked last season
- 2028
- Tasmania inaugural team start
- Up to four VFL-listed players
- Golden ticket scheme limit
Why it mattersLeary's move shows how Tasmania's entry into the AFL is reshaping player pathways, offering direct routes to senior football outside the traditional draft.
AustraliaTasmania's AFL entry is creating new opportunities for Tasmanian and mainland players, with the golden ticket scheme proving attractive to prospects overlooked by established clubs.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 d ago
