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.
West Coast
Liam Baker
With the Eagles desperately needing experience and a hard edge through their midfield, Baker was the perfect inclusion.
In a three-way trade, the Eagles gave up Picks 3, 63 and 68 to land Liam Baker, Matt Owies and Picks 12 and 73.
Although it was another dismal season for the Eagles, Baker could hold his head high as he averaged career highs in disposals, contested possessions and metres gained on his way to winning the Eagles' best and fairest.
Baker will be a crucial part of the Eagles' midfield going forward as they look to inject even more youth through the middle part of the ground.
Other recruits: Bo Allan, Sandy Brock, Malakai Champion, Hamish Davis, Jack Graham, Lucca Grego, Tom Gross, Matt Owies, Jobe Shanahan.
