Richmond has selected dynamic forward/midfielder Taj Hotton with its third selection, No. 12 overall at tonight’s Telstra AFL Draft.
Hotton made a blistering start to this season’s Coates Talent League playing for Sandringham Dragons where he averaged 29 disposals, including a 32 touch and four goal game against Oakleigh Chargers.
The outstanding form saw Hotton selected for the AFL Academy side, however an ACL injury in May meant he was unable to play for Vic Metro in the National Championships.
Hotton was a standout at fitness testing in March with his 2.88 second 20m sprint, 21.1 yoyo, 7.8 agility test and 93cm running vertical leap placing him in the elite category.
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Richmond Victorian Talent Manager, Rhy Gieschen said that Hotton had shown a high level of potential at the beginning of this year, playing for Sandringham and Haileybury.
“Taj’s athleticism allows him to play through the midfield, but also to be a really dangerous prospect as a forward, who can beat his opponent in the air and at ground level,” he said.
“He is recovering from his injury and progressing really well.
“Taj has been super diligent in his rehab and recovery, so we expect to see him return to full health in the second half of the 2025 season.
“We welcome Taj and his family to Richmond.”
The 182cm goalkicker is the son of former Collingwood and Carlton player Trent Hotton and younger brother of Olli Hotton who was drafted to St Kilda in 2022.
