AFL Trade & Draft Whirlwind: Curnow Talks, Binns Availability, Port’s Strategic Shift
Table of Contents
Sydney and Carlton have held preliminary discussions regarding a potential trade for Blues key forward Charlie Curnow, as clubs begin to map out their strategies for the 2025 AFL exchange period. The escalating trade activity is coupled with confirmation that Western bulldogs player Jaxon Binns is attracting interest from rival clubs, while GWS Giants have emerged as potential suitors for Essendon’s Aaron Francis. Meanwhile, Port Adelaide is actively exploring options to reshape its draft hand, prioritizing future selections over immediate gains.
These developments signal an early and intense phase of trade and draft planning, driven by clubs seeking to capitalize on list imbalances and position themselves for sustained success.The Curnow discussions highlight the high value placed on key forwards, while the interest in Binns and Francis underscores the demand for versatile talent. Port Adelaide’s draft strategy reflects a long-term vision focused on securing potential academy and father-son selections in upcoming years.
Curnow Conversations Begin
Sydney and Carlton have initiated talks concerning Curnow, though the discussions are reportedly in their early stages. The Blues are understood to be reluctant to part with the Coleman Medalist, but Sydney’s interest could prompt further negotiation.
Binns Draws Interest
Jaxon Binns, currently contracted with the Western Bulldogs, has been given permission to explore his options with other clubs. Several teams are expected to register their interest in the versatile player.
Francis Attracts GWS Attention
Essendon’s Aaron Francis is attracting interest from the GWS Giants. The Giants are seeking to bolster their defensive stocks and see Francis as a potential addition.
Port Adelaide’s Draft Strategy
Port Adelaide is considering a strategy to minimize its participation in the 2025 draft,possibly utilizing multiple rookie upgrades to their primary list. This approach stems from a plan established 12 months ago, following their investment in the 2024 draft where they selected Joe Berry (pick 15), Jack Whitlock (pick 33), and Christian Moraes (pick 38). The Power supplemented this with mid-season draftees Harrison Ramm, Ewan Mackinlay, and Mani Liddy, all currently contracted for 2025.
The club is also focused on the 2026 and 2027 drafts, with potential academy and father-son prospects including Dougie Cochrane (2026), Louis Salopek, Tevita Roda, and Zemes Pilot (all 2027). Port Adelaide is awaiting the AFL’s decision regarding cochrane’s eligibility as a Next Generation Academy player.
Currently, port Adelaide holds selections 24, 42, and 60 in the upcoming draft. This strategy coincides with Fremantle’s Will Brodie requesting a trade to Alberton and Jacob Wehr confirming his intention to join the Power as an unrestricted free agent.
