AFL hands struggling Roos three first-round picks in compensation call

North Melbourne will receive three end of first round draft picks over the next two years, the AFL has confirmed.

In addition to the three draft picks, the Roos have also been given two additional rookie list spots for next season.

The Kangaroos will not receive any extra assistance regarding Next Generation Academy prospect Ryley Sanders.

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The league noted it could review the assistance picks for 2024 if the club shows a “material increase” in its on-field performance.

“North Melbourne has faced considerable challenges in recent years having not finished higher than 17th on the AFL ladder in the four seasons since 2020. The club presented to the AFL on how assistance can help the club potentially improve its on-field performance,” AFL CEO-elect Andrew Dillon said in a statement.

“The AFL and football fans want a strong competition. Ensuring North Melbourne is competitive on the field and can build strength across its organisation, in the short term and in a sustainable way, is important for both the club and the broader competition.

“Under the leadership of President Sonja Hood, CEO Jennifer Watt and the club‘s board, the AFL is confident that North Melbourne is heading in the right direction.

“After assessing the club’s position, the special assistance package can help the club deliver on its strategy for overall improvement in its football program and give greater confidence to staff, players and supporters.”

In addition to its natural first selection, pick No.2, the Kangaroos could be set to receive pick No.3 as free agency compensation for Ben McKay, who opted to explore his free agency rights.

It would leave them with picks two, three, 14 and 19 as their top four selections in this year’s draft.

“We’ve worked closely with the AFL over the past few weeks to build out an assistance package,” club CEO Jennifer Watt said.

“We put a strong case forward given our recent results and the steps we’ve taken to improve on and off the field, and we especially thank Andrew Dillon, Laura Kane and Ned Guy for listening to us.

“We’re looking at every way to improve our list – whether that’s bringing in more high-end draft talent or players with proven AFL experience.

“These selections will give the club flexibility to achieve those aims at the trade and draft table this year and next.”