The next generation of Bulldogs have arrived.
By Western Bulldogs Media
The next generation of Western Bulldogs have arrived at the Kennel following the 2025 Telstra AFL Draft.
Lachy Carmichael (pick 21), Louis Emmett (pick 27) and Will Darcy (pick 60) will all pull on the red, white and blue and begin their AFL careers at Whitten Oval.
The Dogs were able to bolster depth across the backline through both Carmichael and Darcy, while also adding another tall, athletic and versatile player in Emmett.
A pick swap on night one saw the Bulldogs secure the Gold Coast Suns’ picks 15 and 29 in exchange for picks 14, 33 and 53, ultimately improving the Clubs position heading across both nights.
The Dogs were able to secure Carmichael with their first pick of the Telstra AFL Draft, with the talented Sydney Swans Academy prospect set to begin his AFL career in the red, white and blue.
A creative ball-winner, with strong decision making put the 18-year-old high on the radar of many teams in this draft.
This was only strengthened by his performances during the National Championships, where the composed defender averaged 24.8 disposals, five marks and 3.8 tackles in a performance which would see him awarded with both the Allies’ MVP and All-Australian honours.
The pick swap with the Suns also allowed the Dogs to move up and secure the athletic, mobile ruck in Louis Emmett.
A former rower, Emmett caught the attention at the National Draft Combine ranking third overall in the 2km time trial with a time of 6:07.
Standing at 199cm tall, the mobile tall also impressed at the VFL level against Coburg, registering 15 disposals, five marks and kicking a goal while balancing time in the ruck and in the forward line.
The Dogs’ final pick would be used on father-son prospect, Will Darcy who joins brother Sam at the Kennel.
Seen as a ‘raw talent’, Darcy’s development in the Coates Talent League has been watched closely by the Clubs recruiting team and is a player who holds long-term potential for the team.
At 198cm, Will Darcy will add some depth and height to the Bulldogs’ backline as well as the exciting prospect at having a Darcy at both ends of the field.
Carmichael, Emmett and Darcy join former Gold Coast Sun Connor Budarick as fresh faces through the Trade and Draft Periods.
The Dogs now have the option of participating in Friday’s Rookie Draft, which will begin at 3pm AEDT.
