South Australian draft prospect Cam Nairn has been a late riser in mock drafts ahead of the first round of the 2025 National Draft set to get underway on Wednesday night, but the athletic medium forward is ready for his moment.
Speaking on AFL Media’s Gettable, Nairn admitted that he was surprised to get the call-up to the first night of the draft but was excited for his moment to arrive.
“It’s been pretty surreal. I knew there was some interest but I wasn’t really expecting a draft invite when I got the phone call. It was pretty cool,” Nairn said on Wednesday.
“There was a chance with some clubs that were talking about me possibly in the first round but I wasn’t convinced I was going to get one until the call. Letting mum and dad know was pretty cool.”
Nairn isn’t sure where he’ll end up, but Melbourne has been widely viewed as a likely destination – a club the 18-year-old said was interested in his talents.
“I’ve spoken to a few clubs now. I’m not 100% sure [where I’ll go], it’ll depend on the way it plays out,” Nairn said.
“But I know Melbourne and the Crows are a couple of those clubs that are pretty interested.”
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – JUNE 01: Cameron Nairn of South Australia kicks during the Marsh AFL National Championships U18 Boys match between Allies and South Australia at Blacktown International Sportspark on June 01, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)
Nairn kicked seven goals in a game for South Australia at the U18s National Championships as a mobile marking threat, and while he has been viewed for much of the season as a second-round selection, his set of footy smarts, skill and ability to cover the ground, which suits him as a winger at the next level, has seen him rise up the draft boards.
Melbourne currently hold Picks 7 and 8, though these are expected to slide with potential bids being made, while Adelaide hold Pick 16 in the first round.
Every first-round selection in the 2025 AFL Draft will be announced on Wednesday, November 19.
The first night of the 2025 AFL Draft will be broadcast live from the Victory Room at Marvel Stadium from 7:00pm AEDT.
