Taj Hotton Joins Richmond in Stunning First-Round Draft Selection
Injured midfielder Taj Hotton was left stunned on draft night as Richmond selected him with pick 12, making him part of a stellar first-round draft class filled with familiar faces and close friends.
Despite an ACL injury in May that derailed his draft year, the 182cm Sandringham Dragons prospect believed he was destined for West Coast or Fremantle, who held picks 16 and 17.
“I thought Perth was locked in, so hearing my name called by Richmond was unbelievable,” Hotton said on Thursday. “It was a complete surprise—none of us saw it coming. It’s the best surprise I’ve ever had.”
Hotton was thrilled to join a group featuring some of his closest mates, including Harry Armstrong (pick 23), with whom he shares a long history of playing basketball and football.
“I couldn’t have scripted it better. We’ve got an incredible group of boys, and I’m so grateful for how everything has unfolded,” he said.
The 18-year-old is set to begin running again next week as he recovers from his ACL injury, with Richmond planning a cautious approach for his rehabilitation, targeting a return to ball work in the new year.
Hotton is also aware of the challenges of breaking into the AFL, having seen his older brother Olli struggle with injuries and opportunities during his stint at St Kilda. Olli, drafted at pick 35 in 2022, was delisted three weeks ago after two difficult seasons without a senior debut.
Taj hopes to carve out a different path at Richmond, eager to make the most of the opportunity and build on the excitement of an unforgettable draft moment.
Richmond’s six first-round draft selections from Wednesday night (from left to right): Josh Smillie, Sam Lalor and Harry Armstrong (back row) and Jonty Faull, Taj Hotton and Luke Trainor (front row). Michael Klein Credit: News Corp Australia
Hotton Reflects on Lessons Learned as No.1 Pick Lalor Looks Forward to Richmond Journey
Taj Hotton, Richmond’s newest midfield recruit, has already gained valuable insights from his older brother Olli’s AFL experiences.
“I’ve probably learned just how much work is required to succeed. The AFL can be a tough environment, especially if you fall behind,” Hotton said. “I’ve learned to stay proactive and make the most of every resource available.”
While Olli faced setbacks during his time at St Kilda, Taj hopes for brighter prospects for his brother while applying the lessons he’s observed. “Hopefully, things work out for him, but I’ve learned a lot from watching his dedication and understanding what it takes to become a great player.”
Meanwhile, No.1 pick Sam Lalor shared his excitement about reuniting with Hotton at Richmond, having developed a strong bond during their time in the AFL Academy.
“The thing I’m looking forward to most is playing with Taj,” Lalor said. “We’ve got a great relationship, and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”
Lalor also acknowledged the unique benefit of joining such a large draft class, which has helped ease the pressure of being the top pick.
“With so many boys coming in, it takes a lot of the spotlight off me as No.1. I’m excited to share this experience and see how we all grow together,” Lalor added.
Both players are ready to embrace the challenges ahead, adding youthful energy and camaraderie to a Richmond squad eager for the future.
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