The move from Melton to Adelaide has paid off for Jack Watkins who has been rookie listed by Port Adelaide.
Watkins was one of a few players who got their first opportunity on an AFL list when he was taken at pick four on Friday.
The midfielder trained with Port Adelaide ahead of last season as he aimed to get an SSP spot.
While he missed out, he moved to Adelaide and played for the club’s South Australian National Football League.
Watkins won the Magpies’ best and fairest, having won North Melbourne’s Victorian Football League best and fairest the two previous seasons.
In 2025, Watkins averaged 27 disposals, 4.6 marks and 4.2 clearances from 18 games.
He was selected in the 2025 SANFL team of the year, earning recognition for his consistency and work-rate.
Prior to his move to South Australia, Watkins made 63 VFL appearances for North Melbourne,
Watkins also represented South Australia in the state team earlier this season, when the SANFL hosted the WAFL in May.
Port Adelaide national recruiting manager Geoff Parker said Watkins has shown great perseverance as he continued to develop his game and strive for an opportunity at AFL level.
“He had an outstanding 2025 season for the Magpies, winning the A.R. McLean Medal and representing the SANFL state team.
“He has strength to hold his ground and take clean possession in a contest, then burst into space. He’s a high possession player with the smarts and running capacity to stay involved as the ball transitions.”
Watkins played majority of his junior football with Melton South before playing senior football for the club as he progressed through the ranks.
He also represented the Western Jets.
Watkins later aligned with Melton, where he brother Lachie Watkins played.
