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.
Gold Coast
John Noble
The Suns acquired Noble through a three-way trade with Collingwood and Port Adelaide. They gave up Jack Lukosius, Rory Atkins and Picks 13, 29 and 50 for Noble, two 2025 first-round selections and Pick 39.
Featuring in 25 games, it was easily a career best season for the rebounding defender as the Suns charged towards finals footy for the first time ever. Noble averaged 25.3 disposals, 4.8 rebound 50s and 530 metres gained, all career highs, proving his importance in a Suns team that looks destined for more September action.
Given Noble's 2025 form, Jack Lukosious' injury troubles and the retirement of Rory Atkins, this trade was a huge win for the Suns in 2025.
Other recruits: Cooper Bell, Asher Eastham, Zak Evans, Lachlan Gulbin, Elliott Himmelberg, Ben Jepson, Max Knobel, Leo Lombard, Daniel Rioli.
