Dylan Stephens (born 13 March 2001) is an Australian rules footballer who has played in the Australian Football League (AFL). He was drafted by the Western Bulldogs with the eighth overall pick in the 2019 AFL National Draft and made his senior debut in the 2020 season. At the conclusion of the 2022 AFL season, Stephens was traded to the West Coast Eagles, where he continues his professional career.
Early life and junior football
Stephens grew up in Melbourne, Victoria. He played junior football for the Oakleigh Chargers in the NAB League, the premier under‑18 competition in Victoria. His performances at junior level earned him selection in the AFL under‑18 national championships, representing Vic Metro.
AFL career
Western Bulldogs (2020–2022)
- Drafted: No. 8 overall, 2019 AFL National Draft.
- Debut: Round 10, 2020 season, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
- Position: Primarily a key forward, known for his marking ability and goal sense.
- Games played: 32 (2020–2022).
- Goals: 30.
West Coast Eagles (2023–present)
- Traded: End of the 2022 season, in exchange for multiple draft picks (specific pick numbers undisclosed in public records).
- Games played (as of the end of the 2023 AFL season): 13.
- Goals: 12.
Playing style
Stephens is noted for his strong aerial contests and ability to create scoring opportunities both as a leading forward and by bringing the ball inside the forward 50. He has been utilized in various forward roles, including as a deep‑lying forward and a primary target at centre half‑forward.
Personal life
Publicly available information about Stephens’ personal life, education, and off‑field activities is limited. He maintains a low public profile outside of his football commitments.
Statistics (up to end of 2023 season)
| Season | Club | Games | Goals | Behinds | disposals | marks | tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Western Bulldogs | 5 | 4 | 2 | 36 | 12 | 8 |
| 2021 | Western Bulldogs | 12 | 13 | 7 | 98 | 30 | 18 |
| 2022 | Western Bulldogs | 15 | 13 | 5 | 123 | 38 | 22 |
| 2023 | West Coast Eagles | 13 | 12 | 6 | 115 | 34 | 20 |
| Total | 45 | 42 | 20 | 372 | 114 | 68 |
Statistics are compiled from publicly released AFL match records and are accurate to the conclusion of the 2023 AFL season.
References
- AFL official draft history, 2019.
- Western Bulldogs player profiles, 2020–2022.
- West Coast Eagles player list and season statistics, 2023.
This entry reflects information available from reliable public sources and does not include unverified or speculative details.
