Essendon has welcomed young midfielder Will Snelling via pick No.7 in the NAB AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft.

The 21-year-old, who spent three years in the AFL system with Port Adelaide, arrives at The Hangar from SANFL club West Adelaide.

Despite standing at 175cm, Snelling is a tough operator who has averaged 9.6 tackles a game in the SANFL this season.

He can play as an inside and outside midfielder, averaging an impressive 30 disposals in 2019, with speed and skill his other trademarks.

Snelling was originally taken by Port Adelaide in the 2016 rookie draft, with his sole senior game coming against Gold Coast in 2016.

Prior to joining the Power, he captained South Australia's under-18 championships team and was also a member of West Adelaide's 2015 SANFL premiership side.

General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said Snelling would add depth to the Bombers' midfield, following Devon Smith's season-ending knee surgery.

"Will is having a terrific year for West Adelaide. He’s a pressure player ... He’s a pro and will probably end up being one of the best athletes at our footy club," Dodoro said.

"Losing Devon Smith for the year has left a hole in the team, particularly in midfield. We think his (Snelling) form stacks up. If he comes over and plays in the top form he’s been in this season, he’ll add some depth to our midfield immediately."

Essendon also held pick No.18 in the mid-season rookie draft, but elected to pass.

Will Snelling bio:

Age: 21

Height: 175cm

Weight: 70kg

Position: Midfielder

Recruited from: West Adelaide (SANFL)

This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's Official Recruitment and List Management Partner.