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.
Essendon
Angus Clarke
Drafted at Pick 39 in the 2024 National Draft, Clarke was given an opportunity at AFL level in Round 11 following injuries to a number of key players. He would go on to play every game for the rest of the season, playing predominantly on the wing.
He impressed with his tidy skills, overhead ability and versatility. Clarke's best performance of the year came in his debut game against Richmond, when he amassed 16 disposals, eight marks and three first-half goals. He was awarded a Rising Star nomination for his performance.
Given how comfortable Clarke has looked at AFL level and his ability to play at both ends of the ground and through the midfield, the Bombers look like they have found one at Pick 39.
