The Fremantle Dockers are reportedly gearing up to make a move for father-son prospect Jaren Carr in the upcoming 2024 AFL Draft. The 20-year-old forward, son of former Fremantle player Matt Carr, has caught the eye of the Dockers once again after an impressive season with South Fremantle in the WAFL. This comes two years after Fremantle initially passed on the chance to recruit Carr, but now, they seem prepared to bring him to the club.
Carr, standing at 191cm, made his senior debut for South Fremantle in 2024, playing nine games and showing solid form with an average of 11.9 disposals, 4.1 marks, and three goals. He also contributed 12 goals in nine appearances for the club’s reserves. His strong performances have sparked renewed interest from Fremantle, who have reportedly submitted the necessary paperwork to secure the ability to match any bid for Carr during the National Draft, scheduled for November 20-21, 2024.
Though Fremantle did not recruit Carr in 2022, their interest has clearly revived. According to reports, other clubs, including Brisbane, had shown interest in the young forward earlier this year. However, Carr chose not to nominate for the Mid-Season Draft, which would have given him the chance to join the Lions for an 18-month contract. Now, Fremantle is positioning themselves to potentially select Carr with one of their draft picks or even consider him for a rookie spot if he isn’t taken in the main draft.
Fremantle holds picks 14, 30, and 67 in this year’s draft, with Carr potentially a target for their later pick, depending on the flow of bids. If not selected in the main draft, Carr could also be offered a spot as a rookie. As for the Dockers’ broader roster, they are expected to have a vacancy for former Port Adelaide and Geelong forward Quinton Narkle, who could be added to the list through the Supplemental Selection Period later in the offseason.
As the AFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on whether Fremantle can secure Jaren Carr, a talented young player with strong family ties to the club, and further bolster their forward line for the 2024 season and beyond.