Archer played junior football with the Park Orchards Sharks. In 2021, he played 9 games for the Northern Knights in the NAB League. In the same year, he represented North Melbourne's VFL side in two outings against Port Melbourne and the Southport Sharks.[1] As a junior, Archer was known for his courage, aggression, and competitiveness.[2]
As the son of Glenn, Archer was eligible as a father–son pick for North Melbourne, and he lodged his nomination on the 28th of October 2021.[2]
AFL career
At the 2021 AFL draft, Archer was not bid upon by any other club, being eventually selected by North Melbourne with pick 59. Archer made his debut at Bellerive Oval against Adelaide in round 15 of the 2022 season.[3] Archer would feature twice more for the senior side in 2022 before being sidelined with a hip issue.[4]
In March 2023, Archer penned a one-year contract extension after an impressive pre-season.[5] Due to a groin injury, he did not feature at senior level until Round 19 against Hawthorn.[6] In July 2024, Archer has signed another contract extension, continuing his career till the end of 2026, after making himself a regular in the Kangaroos' backline in 2024, playing with great determination and an uncompromising attack on the footy, and he’s proving to be a tough opponent at senior level.[7]
Archer was nominated for the AFL Rising Star award after he had put together a strong run of form and impressed in the Kangaroos' 13-point win over Richmond in round 21, 2024. Archer had 20 disposals, eight marks and five tackles in the victory.[8]