AFL delistings 2024: The delisted players who deserve a second chance and the clubs who could pick them

The best AFL clubs know how to find a special in the bargain bin. JOSH BARNES examines the best delisted players on the market and the clubs who should be looking to sign them.

Cut Geelong midfielder Mitch Hardie is hopeful James Peatling’s decision to pick Adelaide can open the door to a second club.

Mature aged Cats recruit Hardie was delisted at the end of the season despite a stellar VFL campaign that saw him named in the VFL team of the year.

Peatling was courted by up to six teams as he plotted a move from GWS, with the midfielder choosing the Crows on Friday.

Hardie’s camp was hopeful that would leave the other clubs searching for midfield depth, with the South Australian next in line.

The Western Bulldogs have shown interest in Xavier O’Halloran as they retool their midfield with Bailey Smith (Geelong) and Jack Macrae (St Kilda) pushing for trades elsewhere.

But the Dogs could come up empty with the Giants keen to hold on to contracted players, having copped departures from free agents Isaac Cumming, Harry Perryman and Nick Haynes, plus Peatling’s looming trade, leaving room for a midfield recruit.

Collingwood, St Kilda, Melbourne and West Coast were also reported as showing interest in Peatling and will continue to look for on ball support.

Mitch Hardie won Geelong’s VFL best-and-fairest. Picture: Mark Wilson

Hardie is hopeful of being given a chance by a second AFL club.

Hardie said this week “I think there has been a little” bit of interest in his services.

“The motivation is just at its peak for me at the moment,” he told AFL Trade Radio.

“I’ve absolutely loved my time here in Geelong and after having a taste of it over the last 18 months, I’m absolutely ready to continue that journey wherever it may be.”

🎉 Welcome to the Hardie Party #WeAreGeelongpic.twitter.com/ADwXuOTTss

— Geelong VFL (@GeelongVFL) July 3, 2023

Hardie is one of a long line of delisted players hoping for a new home.

Carlton cut Jack Martin and he will lob at Geelong and St Kilda cut Tom Campbell, who has now signed with Melbourne.

Here are some names that could join them and the clubs that should take a chance on a free hit.

Originally published as AFL delistings 2024: The delisted players who deserve a second chance and the clubs who could pick them