The 2024 trade and draft windows formed a busy off-season for many AFL clubs.
Whether it was a big-name free agent on the move, a highly touted youngster capable of creating immediate impact, a steal late on draft night, or a low-cost trade filling a list need, each club found a player that helped shape their 2025 season.
This isn't a ranking of your club's best-performed recruit, but instead a player that outperformed what your club paid to get them - a player who addressed a list need, had an impact and played an important role in your team's system. Here's one recruit each AFL club nailed.
Richmond
Luke Trainor
Entering the 2024 National Draft with a staggering six first-round picks, the Tigers settled on Trainor as their fifth selection at Pick 21. Trainor was considered arguably the best key defender in his draft pool.
A key position prospect having played at both ends of the ground as a junior, Trainor would have been forgiven for taking time to find his feet at the highest level. But it wasn't required, as Trainor went on to debut in Round 1 against Carlton, playing 21 games for the season, mostly in defence.
The young defender was often tasked with difficult matchups while also demonstrating his intercept ability. His best game of the season came in Richmond's loss to Fremantle in Round 5 when he accumulated 22 disposals and 10 marks.
Trainor looks to be a vital part of Richmond's rebuild.
Other recruits: Jasper Alger, Harry Armstrong, Jonty Faull, Taj Hotton, Sam Lalor, Thomas Sims, Josh Smillie.
