Dockers Pull Off Draft Night Coup
The Fremantle Dockers have made a significant move in the 2025 AFL Draft, successfully securing talented midfielder-forward Adam Sweid with the final selection of the first round, pick number 25.
In a strategic play, Fremantle placed a bid on the Essendon Next Generation Academy prospect, forcing the Bombers into a decisive moment. Ultimately, Essendon, who had already selected WA product Jacob Farrow with pick 10 earlier in the night, chose not to match the bid, allowing Sweid to become a Docker.
A Tale of Two Strategies
Fremantle's successful bid for Sweid came after their cross-town rivals, the West Coast Eagles, had attempted a similar tactic four times earlier in the draft night. However, the Eagles' bids on other academy prospects were all matched by their respective clubs, making Fremantle's acquisition of Sweid a standout successful manoeuvre.
The draft selection continues a notable trend for the Dockers, who have now used their top pick on a Victorian player for three consecutive years. This follows the selection of Rising Star winner Murphy Reid with pick 17 in 2024 and forward-turned-defender Cooper Simpson with selection 35 in 2023.
Who is Adam Sweid?
Adam Sweid brings a dynamic skillset to Fremantle. Having played much of his junior football as a midfielder, he is also known for his offensive flair and is likely to begin his AFL career across half-forward, adding potency to the Dockers' attacking structure.
His journey to the AFL has been one of resilience. Sweid suffered a torn ACL at the age of 16, but he bounced back emphatically to produce a powerful campaign for the Calder Cannons in Victoria's elite underage competition, the Coates Talent League.
His impressive form at that level did not go unnoticed, earning him a debut for Essendon's VFL side in June 2025. He made an immediate impact in that match, kicking a goal and demonstrating he could perform against senior opposition.
This strategic acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for both Adam Sweid and the Fremantle Football Club as they build their list for the future.
