Caylen Murray has firmed as a likely top-10 selection in the upcoming AFL National Draft following an impressive season with the Brisbane Lions Academy and Allies.

Originally from Cherbourg on Wakka Wakka Country, the 18-year-old moved to the Sunshine Coast with his family to pursue greater football opportunities.

Murray has attracted interest from AFL recruiters this year after earning the Allies' Most Valuable Player award and U18 All-Australian honours at the National Championships.

It follows his selection in the U16 All-Australian team in 2024.

One of Murray's standout performances came against South Australia earlier this year, with 31 disposals, nine marks and two goals in an impressive display across half-back.

"I feel like it enhanced my draft stocks a bit - that was a big game in my year - probably the biggest game of my career so far," Murray told foxfooty.com.au.

The talented youngster initially made his name as a midfielder before being moved into defence last year.

Former Hawthorn and Brisbane premiership defender Grant Birchall, who works with the Lions academy, has played an important role in helping Murray develop his defensive game.

"When I went to half-back, he (Birchall) pulled me over and said, 'mate, you've got to defend,'" Murray said.

"So I worked pretty hard on that during pre-season ... It was positioning, knowing where my opponent is but also getting aggressive."

Murray has established himself as an attacking half-back, with his speed and ball use among his greatest strengths.

He has also benefited from the experience of former Brisbane stars Simon Black and Jason Akermanis, who have been involved in his development.

Murray joined the Lions Academy as a 13-year-old after taking up football with the Maroochydore Roos, having previously been involved in surf lifesaving.

His development has included selection in the 2025 AFL Indigenous Academy and opportunities to train alongside Brisbane's AFL squad.

He has also gained experience at state league level, making seven VFL appearances this season.

Football talent runs in the Murray family, with younger sister Millie also considered a promising prospect ahead of next year's AFLW Draft.

Brisbane holds academy rights to Murray and will have the opportunity to match a bid from another club during the draft.

However, changes to the AFL's draft bidding system could make securing the highly rated youngster more difficult.

Despite his strong connection to the Lions, Murray understands there is no guarantee he will begin his AFL career in Brisbane.

"I mean, it's my local club," he said.

"I've been there in the academy almost my whole life, but if it happens (getting drafted to a different club), it happens.

"That's part of footy, it's what you've got to do."