Essendon fans have three big reasons to be happy after night one of the 2025 Telstra AFL Draft, with the Club selecting exciting youngsters Sullivan Robey (pick No.9), Jacob Farrow (pick No.10) and Dyson Sharp (pick No.13).
Securing the services of Carlton’s pick No.9 (eventually becoming 13 after early draft bids) in exchange for picks 21, 27, and 30, the Bombers aggressively moved up the order via a live swap to ensure they’d have three top prospects in the sash by night’s end.
It was difficult not to hear Robey’s name throughout 2025, with the 18-year-old cementing himself as one of the draft’s most significant ‘bolters’ since its inception.
Recruiters leaguewide tried to keep the 192cm mid-forward under wraps as a hidden gem over the last 12 months – as of September however, he was an Eastern Ranges Grand Final hero and a certified top 10 prospect with a game-breaking four goals on the big stage.
In addition to his strong frame as a lead-up forward, Robey’s increased exposure to the midfield in the back end of his top-age year (following a big growth spurt) highlighted his explosiveness as a clearance player. This was best shown in a 40-disposal, three-goal domination of the Western Jets in their Wildcard matchup.
Robey is also a passionate Bombers supporter who’s spoken openly of his desire to don the sash as attention has grown over his draft rise - he's seen as a ready-made prospect.
Speaking of ready-made Dons fans, Dyson Sharp is another who fits that billing to a tee.
The 187cm midfielder captained South Australia from early in his junior representative stints and led them manfully with a stellar National Championship run as a top-ager this year, racking up 27 disposals and five tackles per game over his four appearances.
One of the toughest operators in his draft class, Sharp’s contested work and his clean hands in traffic have made him arguably the standout inside player amongst the crop – set to add a key component to the Bombers’ midfield stocks.
Sharp grew up a mad Bombers supporter despite living in SA, inspired by his namesake Dyson Heppell – the same idol who presented him with his Dons guernsey in a wholesome on-stage moment.
WA’s finest product in this year’s pool, Farrow is a dynamic defender renowned for his rebound and raking left leg.
The 187cm half back has a glowing footy IQ and reads opposition forwards as well as any, capable of locking down direct opponents with his one-on-one strengths and being just as damaging with ball in hand.
He avoids pressure well with his agility and can win plenty of footy more broadly – he averaged 19 touches per game for WA in the Championships and held his own at senior level in three games with West Perth in the WAFL.
Recruiters are quick to compare him to flashy elite-level runners such as Hayden Young and Jordan Dawson with his slick distribution by foot.
NGA/James Hird Academy prospect Adam Sweid was bid on by Fremantle at pick No.25 - the Bombers opted not to match.
Essendon enters night two of the draft with pick No.36 at its disposal.
The Dons' three draftees will officially begin pre-season training with the Club next Monday when the entire playing list is due back at the NEC Hangar.
