Leilanni Nesbeth is predicted to be drafted as high as sixth in the 2024 National Women’s Soccer League draft.

The draft takes place in Anaheim, California, tonight with 230 players available for selection and the top two picks will go to the Utah Royals and Bay FC, two new expansion teams entering the league this year. Chicago Red Stars will pick third, and then the Royals, who traded up for the fourth overall pick. In all, there will be four rounds with up to 56 players selected by the NWSL's 14 teams.

According to ESPN.com, this is an open draft with no standout choice for the No 1 spot, unlike in previous years where the top pick was a player who had been in the fold with the senior US women's national team, such as Naomi Girma (2022), Sophia Smith (2020) and Rose Lavelle (2017).

In the article Nesbeth is predicted to go high in the first round with ESPN describing the talent that helped her win her second national title with Florida State in December.

“Her ability to navigate tight spaces and dictate possession were big elements to the team's success,” reads the article.

“And while her game is predicated more on ball retention, she did manage to score 15 goals and set up 14 more in 89 career games. Replicating that and showing the defensive chops to win central midfield duels will dictate her next-level success.”

In an interview with The Royal Gazette this month, Nesbeth revealed that she has already held discussions with interested teams.

“Obviously, I have no idea what state I may end up, but I’m just excited to see how I can fit in within this league,” she said.

“I’ve had some conversations thus far and hopefully a few more before the draft day. I am just trying to do all I can to get myself physically and mentally prepared before pre-season starts and just looking forward to seeing what the future holds and where.”