Watkins is a back-to-back John Law medallist as well as a VFL Team of the Year member. Image: Matt Sampson.

Former North Melbourne VFL captain Jack Watkins has joined Port Adelaide as a train-on player for the AFL pre-season. 

Watkins will be vying for an AFL list spot during the supplementary selection period (SSP), with clubs able to sign players until the SSP closes on Friday, 21 February, if a place is available. 

Watkins, a back-to-back John Law Medallist, awarded to the best and fairest Kangaroo in the VFL, arrived at Alberton on Monday for day one of pre-season. 

The 23-year-old was named in the 2024 VFL Team of the Year after averaging 24.9 disposals and 5.6 inside 50s from 18 appearances for North Melbourne. 

Watkins joined training on Monday with the one-to-four year players. Image: Matt Sampson.

He also represented the VFL when its representative side played against the SANFL at Glenelg in April. 

Recording 61 VFL games in blue and white, the competitive midfielder boasts solid on-field traits and clear leadership qualities.  

Watkins was excited for the opportunity to put his best foot forward in a new environment. 

Watkins is excited for the chance to train with an AFL group for a possible list spot. Image: Matt Sampson.

“I’m really pleased that Port Adelaide have given me a chance to train with the AFL group,” Watkins said. 

“I’ve absolutely loved the last few years at North Melbourne and couldn’t be more grateful for my time there. 

“The opportunity to train at a new club and put my hand up for a possible list spot was something I couldn’t pass up, and I’m really excited to get stuck in.” 

Port Adelaide’s one-to-four-year players returned to pre-season training on Monday, with the rest of the group to be back the following week.