Rich became the third No.7 pick in a row to win the Ron Evans Medal, after Geelong's Joel Selwood (2007) and Fremantle's Rhys Palmer (2008).
Despite being touted as one of the top talents in last year's draft, Rich was by-passed by the clubs with selections above the Lions.
He said he was not disappointed with not being selected higher, believing that the specific needs at clubs dictated their selections.
"It didn't bother me whatsoever", Rich said from Brisbane when the award was announced on Wednesday. "I'm so happy up here in Brisbane and I can't be thankful enough of being picked up at No.7."
As it will in this year's draft, Melbourne had the top pick in 2008, using it on key position prospect Jack Watts.
Watts came in for some harsh scrutiny during his debut season, and Rich said he thought the young Demon had been treated unfairly by some.
"To be honest with you, I did feel a bit for Jack.
"I know him quite well and he is such a great kid, so his time will come. But he's going to be a great player and I just wish everyone would give him a bit of time."
Rich, 19, said the move to Queensland was made easier by the lifestyle being similar to his native Western Australia.
"I've loved moving away from home ... and I love everything that comes with footy."
