South Australian draft prospect Isaac Keeler has been described as a player that has one of the highest ceilings in this year’s crop.
Standing 198cm, Keeler’s natural ability and athleticism make him an intriguing option for AFL clubs.
While Keeler has the potential to become a star, the teenager understands that his status as a likely second-round pick means he has a lot of work to do to reach that level.
“I’ve still got heaps of work to go,” Keeler told SEN SA The Run Home.
“Obviously, I’m not the finished product but yeah, I have a long way until I’m at my full potential.
“I feel if I hit my full potential then I can be the best I can be.”
As an underage footballer, Keeler was a member of Adelaide’s Next Generation Academy, but the Crows opted against nominating the tall as they’d be unable to match a bid inside the top 40 picks.
While Keeler says it’s unfortunate to not know exactly where he’s headed, he knows interet is high having spoken to 16 of the 18 clubs ahead of draft night.
“I’ve had a few interviews and that sort of thing,” Keeler said.
“I’ve spoken to the majority, not all 18, but 16 or so.
“I was out there training with them (Adelaide) through the start of pre-season and a few years ago with the AFL squad.
“It was a good experience and it’s unfortunate I can’t go there, but I guess that’s just the footy business.”
As an athletic tall ruck/forward, Keeler says he models his game on three stars of the AFL.
“I’m mainly a key forward into the ruck where I can pinch hit,” Keeler explained.
“I like to get around the ground.
“Yeah, obviously I look at a fair few players,
“But the main players I look at is probably Buddy Franklin from a forward’s perspective.
“From a ruck, sort of Luke Jackson and Paddy Ryder.”
If Keeler can become anything like the players he models his game off, the club he lands at may just pick up the steal of the draft.
This year’s National Draft takes place on Monday, November 28 and Tuesday, November 29.