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.
Sydney
Riley Bice
It was a solid first season for the mature-age recruit out of Werribee. Drafted by the Swans in the National Draft at Pick 41 after a stellar 2024 VFL campaign, Bice played 16 AFL games in his debut season.
Across a four-week stretch early in the season, Bice averaged 22 disposals and 8.5 marks across half-back, proving he has what it takes to succeed at the top level.
His best performance came in Round 4 against North Melbourne, when he had 26 disposals and 15 marks, receiving seven coaches votes.
The Swans would have been pleased with what Bice was able to produce and excited by the prospect of what he could produce with another pre-season under his belt. He was recognised as the Swans' Rising Star at their awards night.
Other recruits: Riak Andrew, Ned Bowman, Jesse Dattoli, Blake Leidler, Ben Paton.
