BIG-BODIED midfielders are often hard to come by in the draft, but West Australian Sam Powell-Pepper fits that description nicely.
Powell-Pepper has an aggressive mindset when attacking the footy in contested situations: he tackles the opposition fiercely and he flies for his marks with intent.
Given his size and power, the 187cm and 90kg Powell-Pepper can also spend time up forward where his ability to win one-on-one contests can be put to good use.
The 18-year-old had 22 disposals, laid seven tackles and kicked four goals to almost lift East Perth to the WAFL Colts premiership over Claremont, underlining his talent and big-game temperament.
Powell-Pepper will be a difference maker on any team he plays for. He has the talent, but he clearly cares about how his team fares and that desire shines through in his footy.
The midfielder averaged 22 disposals and kicked 12 goals from eight games at Colts level. Powell-Pepper also played five senior WAFL games and three in the reserves for the Royals.
Powell-Pepper has a body that will allow him to play senior footy next year and he should be able to make an immediate impact.
Powell-Pepper is renowned for his bash-and-crash style and often operates at a million miles an hour. As a result, he doesn't always stop to slow down and sum up the situation in front of him.
His kicking has also been questioned at times, although he was the only player to record a perfect score (30/30) in the goalkicking test at the NAB AFL Draft Combine.
Powell-Pepper possesses some special athletic attributes, with his size and power, particularly in the way he brushes off tacklers, reminiscent of Richmond's Dustin Martin. He is also not afraid to fly for his marks, and pull down pack grabs, like Sydney's Luke Parker.
Powell-Pepper has his admirers and could be a late first-round pick, but early in the second round shapes as his potential landing spot.
Powell-Pepper could play 22 AFL games next season and will make his team better. He plays with confidence and aggression, two characteristics that will instantly endear him to teammates and fans alike.
