Josh Draper stands out among young AFL talents for his fast rise at Fremantle Football Club. In this article, you will know Josh Draper’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Explore his impressive journey from grassroots football to earning a senior AFL contract and a Rising Star nomination.
Josh Draper’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joshua Draper |
| Date of Birth | February 8, 2004 |
| Age | 21 |
| Nationality | Australian (of Ethiopian heritage from his mother’s side) |
| Height | 197cm (6’6”) |
| Weight | N/A |
| Education | N/A |
| Turned Pro | 2022 (drafted as Category B Rookie) |
| AFL Club | Fremantle Dockers |
| Position | Defender |
| Net Worth | Estimated $750,000 |
| Salary | Estimated $250,000 |
| Contracted Until | 2027 |
| Career Earnings | Estimated $500,000+ |
| Wife/Girlfriend | N/A |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Josh Draper started his football journey in Western Australia, representing Rockingham and Peel Thunder at youth level before being scouted for Fremantle’s Next Generation Academy. Influenced by his Ethiopian heritage on his mother’s side, Draper entered the academy at 13 and impressed scouts with his size and athleticism.
Before choosing football, he proved himself as a state-level basketballer, winning gold at national championships in 2021.
Drafted as a Category B rookie by Fremantle in 2022, he developed his skills in the reserves before being elevated to the AFL’s senior roster. Draper’s early years highlight his determination and versatility across multiple sports.
Professional Career
Draper’s breakthrough came in 2024 when Fremantle faced a defensive injury crisis. He debuted in Round 2 against North Melbourne, notching up 7 disposals and quickly cemented his spot with a 14-disposal, 4-mark game the following week.
Draper showed maturity beyond his years, playing critical defensive roles and producing standout performances, including a key match against Sydney where his defensive efforts helped secure a win.
His reliability earned him a Telstra AFL Rising Star nomination and increased time on-ground as a key defender.
By season’s end, Draper had become a central part of Fremantle’s backline and signed a two-year contract extension, securing his position until 2027.
Josh Draper’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Josh Draper’s net worth stands at an estimated $750,000. This includes his AFL contract, base salary, and endorsement opportunities.
Contract
Following his impressive performances, Draper signed a two-year contract extension in August 2024, tying him to Fremantle until the end of the 2027 season. The extension elevated him from a Category B rookie to the club’s senior list in 2026.
His new contract reflects his growing role and promises greater financial stability, positioning him among Fremantle’s long-term defensive core.
Salary
Draper’s AFL salary for 2025 is estimated at $250,000, aligned with emerging defenders who have secured a senior list berth and consistent game time.
This salary reflects league averages for non-veteran, non-star players on the main list who have shown strong development but are not yet in the highest-earning category.
Career Earnings
| Year | Estimated Earnings (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $50,000 (Rookie) |
| 2023 | $75,000 (Rookie) |
| 2024 | $125,000 |
| 2025 | $250,000 |
| Total | $500,000 |
Career Stats
| Year | Club | Games | Disposals | Marks | Goals | Tackles | Rising Star |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Fremantle | 20 | 210 | 55 | 0 | 38 | Yes |
| 2025 | Fremantle | 17* | 188 | 52 | 0 | 32 | – |
FAQs
1. What position does Josh Draper play for Fremantle?
He plays as a key defender at Fremantle, often matched against some of the AFL’s hardest forwards. His size and athleticism help him perform crucial defensive tasks for the team.
2. When did Draper make his AFL debut, and how did he perform?
He made his AFL debut in Round 2 of the 2024 season against North Melbourne, collecting 7 disposals and defending confidently, which allowed him to retain his spot for future games.
3. Has Josh Draper received any AFL awards?
He received a AFL Rising Star nomination after producing a standout 18-disposal game in the Western Derby. His defensive consistency brought him broad recognition across the league.
4. What is Draper’s contract status?
Draper signed a contract extension in August 2024. He is now contracted with Fremantle until the end of the 2027 AFL season and has moved onto the senior list.
5. What sports background does Draper have besides football?
He played representative basketball for Western Australia, winning gold at the national championships. Draper’s background in basketball contributed to his athletic development, aiding his football career.
