The North Melbourne Kangaroos have selected Paul Curtis with their third pick in the 2021 NAB AFL Draft.

The mid-sized forward was selected with pick No.35 overall. He is a dangerous threat in-front of goal, averaging two goals per game in the 2021 NAB League season.

It's been a steady rise for the Western Jets forward, who kicked five goals across his first three NAB League matches in 2021, before finishing the season in fine fashion, slotting nine majors in the last four outings.

He earned selection for Vic Metro in the trial match against Vic Country, where he caused major headaches for the Vic Country defenders, booting 3.5 from 18 disposals.

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"Paul showed significant improvement as the season went on, performing to a high level for the Western Jets and Vic Metro," North Melbourne National Recruiting Manager Mark Finnigan said.

"He brings genuine X-factor to the front half which will complement what we already have in that area of the ground.

"Offensively he is very dangerous, regularly hitting the scoreboard or setting up teammates. Paul is an opportunistic type forward making him a dangerous match-up. He kicks goals in multiple ways.

"In 2021 he made significant improvements in his defensive pressure averaging three tackles inside 50.

"We see Paul as a really exciting prospect long-term who can fill a list need for us."

Curtis made headlines last month when he tested positive to COVID-19, but has since been double vaccinated.