The Brisbane Lions have selected Geelong Falcons’ Alex Witherden with pick #23 at the NAB AFL National Draft in Sydney.

After a promising second half of last season saw him elevated to the NAB AFL Academy, the composed half-back entered 2016 keen to move into the midfield. But those hopes were ended by a broken leg in May, which saw him miss the rest of the season following surgery.

Witherden, is a prolific ball winner across half back. The 189cm hybrid is good offensively, but is also responsible going the other way.

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When up and going, Witherden is a poised prospect who can pinpoint passes from the back half and is trusted with the ball. He can direct a game with his foot skills and manages to think smartly through situations.

ALEX WITHERDEN: 186cm/80kg, 10/9/98

  • Vic Country / Geelong Falcons
  • Hybrid Defender / Hybrid Midfielder
  • Classy utility whose ball use by hand and foot is in the higher echelon of the group.
  • Witherden broke his leg playing school football early this season and missed the final third of the year.

Our 2016 Draftees

  Pick 3: Hugh McCluggage

  Pick 17: Jarrod Berry

  Pick 23: Alex Witherden

  Pick 24: Cedric Cox

  Pick 55: Jacob Allison

  Pick 71: Corey Lyons