It's going to be a good year for the small men at the AFL Draft.

With plenty of options, and Essendon in a strong position with picks, NAB AFL Academy Coach Brenton Sanderson highlights the players he believes will be sure selections.

Darcy Parish:

DOB: 25/07/1997

Height: 181cm Weight: 74kg

Club(s): Geelong Falcons/Vic Country

Position: Midfielder

It’s the name on the lips of every Bombers supporter and a player that every expert believes the team would be more than happy to have.  If his early performance during the TAC Cup was to go by, the dashing midfielder will be an important inclusion to the team. Parish averaged 28 disposals a game, including 13 contested touches and seven clearances a game. He is cool, calm and collected under pressure and will win his own ball whenever it is required.

Sando’s say:

“You can’t go wrong with a kid like Darcy Parish if he’s still going to be there. He’s a small mid, but he’s an incredible talent. He wins the footy and spreads really hard outside. He plays defence as well, which I really like. He’s smart around the goals, courageous and tough. Bombers’ fans wouldn’t be disappointed if Darcy Parish gets his name called out by the Bombers.”

Wayne Millera:

DOB: 10/09/1997

Height: 185cm Weight: 75kg

Club(s): Central Districts/South Australia

Position: Half-Forward

A late bloomer this year, Millera produced several quality performances in the back half of the season which saw him catch the attention of many selectors. His dash and read on the play was important in the forward line. Millera is a silky player who has the ability to hit the scoreboard quickly. He could very well become the goal sneak that Essendon’s forward line is so desperately missing.

Sando’s say:

“Millera played  well in the National Championships for South Australia, but it wasn’t until the back half of the season where he played really well. He kicked five goals in one game of senior footy, playing as a high energy, bouncy high forward and played really well in the finals as well. He is ready to play and he could slot right into the Essendon side quickly. He’s definitely a top ten talent.”