Adelaide Crows

Jordon Butts: The rookie-listed key defender, 19, has impressed with his accurate kicking and intercept marking. Rewarded with a two-year contract extension until 2021.

Darcy Fogarty: The 12th overall pick in the 2017 NAB AFL Draft hasn't got a look in after 10 senior games in 2018. Was tried in defence before being moved back forward. Fogarty is contracted until 2021.

Will Hamill: The medium defender is having a solid first season in the SANFL. The Crows have locked in Hamill – the 30th pick in last year's draft – until 2022.

Paul Hunter: The 26-year-old provides depth in the Crows' ruck department behind Reilly O'Brien and Sam Jacobs. Hunter – in his fourth season as a rookie without playing a senior game – is unlikely to earn a new contract.

Shane McAdam: The 24-year-old forward had a calf injury in the pre-season and has kicked 10 goals in eight games. Joined the Crows as part of the Mitch McGovern trade to Carlton.

Ned McHenry: Has showcased his huge engine with several prolific games on the wing, however has had a back injury the past few weeks. The 19-year-old – who was the 16th overall pick in last year's draft – has re-signed until 2022.

Andrew McPherson: The versatile defender, 20, has finally had a decent run, playing eight SANFL games so far, after injuries ruled him out of most of last season. Another long-term prospect who is signed until 2021.

Andy Otten: A much-loved figure at the Crows, the 30-year-old defender continues to set high standards for the club's youngsters in the SANFL. Could still play this year if there are injuries to Adelaide's key backs.

Lachlan Sholl: Another one of the exciting prospects taken in last year's draft. Sholl has shown promise as a medium defender and has re-signed until 2022.

Kieran Strachan: The 24-year-old ruckman has played mostly as a key forward to accommodate Jacobs and Hunter in his first season at the club. The rookie-listed big man doesn't have a contract for next year, but is likely to be retained.

Patrick Wilson: The 24-year-old rookie-listed midfielder would be close to leading the Magarey Medal as the best player in the SANFL. Having an outstanding season and racking up big numbers, but there is no room in the Crows onball division for another inside mid.

Who might play in 2019? Otten is the most likely to feature as defensive cover given his vast experience and form this season. Fogarty and Wilson could play if there are injuries in the forward line or midfield respectively. - Lee Gaskin

Brisbane Lions

Connor Ballenden: Played as both a key defender and key forward in the NEAFL and shown development from his first year. Getting closer to a debut, but more likely in 2020.

Tom Berry: The younger brother of Jarrod, Tom has improved as the season has worn on. Has a high work-rate and jumped a few players in the queue to close in on a call-up.

Cedric Cox: Now in his third season, the dashing half-back has stagnated. Had some personal issues that disrupted his year and slipped down the pecking order. Still another year on his contract.

Matt Eagles: Another strong NEAFL season for Eagles, but he's caught behind Darcy Gardiner, Marcus Adams and Ryan Lester as hybrid defenders. Out of contract and a tough decision coming for the club.

Tom Joyce: Had a slow start to his pre-season following hip surgery, but much like his fellow draftees, has improved with more games. More likely to push his case next year.

Corey Lyons: Now in his third season, Lyons is dominating the NEAFL and absolutely bashing the door down for a senior debut. Caught behind older brother Jarryd, Lachie Neale and Jarrod Berry as inside midfielders. Is out of contract.

James Madden: The Irish recruit made a name for himself a few weeks ago by kicking five goals in the NEAFL. A year of education for him.

Connor McFadyen: Dogged by injury from the moment he was drafted, the Lions' Academy graduate has struggled to impact when he's played. Needs more continuity.

Jack Payne: Missed almost the entire 2018 season with lower leg problems, and again the hulking key defender has battled injuries. Has a future but needs some consistency.

Sam Skinner: This is the first full season Skinner has had since being drafted in 2015. Played both forward and back and has been in selection consideration a couple of times. Is pushing for a new contract.

Ely Smith: The club's first-round draft pick from last year started slowly and has steadily improved. Brisbane is stacked with inside midfielders, meaning Smith will likely continue to ply his trade in the NEAFL.

Toby Wooller: Has impressed mightily in his second year and pushed hard for a debut earlier in the year. A natural forward, Wooller has increased his midfield minutes to improve his versatility. 

Who might play in 2019? With a reliable squad of 28-30 players to choose from, injury is the only avenue for any of the above to get a call-up. Lyons, Skinner and Berry are the most likely candidates if injury should strike. - Michael Whiting

Carlton

Tom Bugg: Retired in February without playing a game for Carlton.

Sam Docherty: Is still sidelined following a second successive ACL injury. Had initially hoped to play late this year, but realistically won't get back on the park until 2020.

Jarrod Pickett: Ruptured his patella during the club's last training session before Christmas and didn't return. Decided to head home to Western Australia and retire in June.

Pat Kerr: Has performed strongly at VFL level, but has found senior opportunities difficult to come by due to an already tall Carlton forward line featuring Harry McKay, Charlie Curnow and Mitch McGovern.

Tom De Koning: Is close to returning to the side, having produced a strong patch of form in the VFL. He dealt with a knee injury that hampered his year, but the Blues are rapt with his progress and see him as the club's long-term ruckman.

Matt Cottrell: Missed the start of the season due to a knee injury, which limited his consistency. Is spending a lot of time on the wing and is improving.

Josh Deluca: Came to the club with a hamstring issue, but has impressed in his three VFL matches as an inside midfielder. Will be considered for the senior team soon.

Kym LeBois: Has dealt with hamstring issues this season. He can provide some excitement in the forward line, but has battled with inconsistency.

Finbar O'Dwyer: The late draft pick is spending most of his time across half forward. He's very raw, having missed a lot of his draft year due to fitness issues.

Matt Owies: The former basketballer has impressed as a dangerous threat playing forward. He knows where the goals are and was a senior emergency on the weekend.

Angus Schumacher: Has been coming on well. He provides good rebound off half-back, though his kicking can be wayward. Might earn a senior chance later in the year.

Ben Silvagni: He's improving following a slow start to the season. Has spent most of the year playing as a key defender, with his lockdown work progressing nicely. 

Who might play in 2019? The club thinks De Koning might push for a place in the side late in the season, while it tipped Deluca to eventually earn his spot after a few VFL games. It has been pleased with Schumacher's development and might give him a chance. - Riley Beveridge

Collingwood

Flynn Appleby: After making nine AFL appearances in his debut season, the medium-sized rookie-listed defender had a limited pre-season but was close to senior selection early before missing eight weeks with an ankle injury.

Atu Bosenavulagi: In his first season at the Holden Centre, the pacy pressure forward has played 13 VFL games and shown some promise while learning the caper from the Pies' established stars.

Tim Broomhead: Delisted and re-drafted as a rookie after suffering a season-ending broken leg last year, the forward/midfielder has been handy with three multiple-goal efforts in the VFL.

Tyler Brown: Pies coach Nathan Buckley said in pre-season that the tall midfielder boasted traits that reminded him of Fremantle superstar Nat Fyfe, and he seems on the cusp of making his AFL debut.

Lynden Dunn: Two knee reconstructions in the space of just nine months has probably ended the career of the respected 32-year-old full-back and leadership group member.

Tyson Goldsack: After making a rapid return from a knee reconstruction to play in the finals last year, the agile swingman started the season in attack before settling in defence. Aiming to finish his career with a bang.

Mark Keane: In his first season with the Pies, the Irish import didn't take long to develop a reputation as an aggressive, take-no-prisoners full-back. Also kicks the ball well, but is still very much learning the craft.

Will Kelly: The father-son key-position prospect spent the summer rehabilitating an ankle injury and played four VFL games before suffering a significant hamstring injury. Could make a late-season return.

Max Lynch: The promising ruckman is in his third season on the Pies' rookie list and is making solid progress towards claiming a spot on the primary list.

Nathan Murphy: The smooth-moving runner stepped up to play the final two rounds at AFL level last year but calf, ankle and back ailments have restricted him to just a brief cameo in the VFL season-opener.

Sam Murray: The rookie-listed speedster is under a provisional suspension for allegedly testing positive to a banned substance on game day last August. His fate remains in limbo.

Anton Tohill: The Pies' other first-year player from Ireland is still finding his feet as a key forward and back-up ruckman. Has also had a couple of niggles.

Tom Wilson: The former Australian Boomers basketballer signed on as a rookie in May and took some time to build his conditioning but has impressed in his two VFL appearances to date. 

Who might play in 2019? Brown could receive a senior call up as soon as this week, given the injury to skipper Scott Pendlebury, while veteran Goldsack and Appleby are handy reinforcements if the Pies suffer more injuries.

Essendon

Matt Dea: Won another year on Essendon's list after playing 39 games in the senior team in the past three years. But seems unlikely to be at the club in 2020 after his reprieve this year.

Sam Draper: Went down with an ACL injury early in the year, which has robbed him of a chance at AFL level which he would have gotten this year. Is weighing up a big offer from St Kilda.

Noah Gown: Gown kicked three goals on the weekend and has been a regular goalkicker in the VFL side. Is aggressive and a hard worker but hasn't yet been considered for a senior call-up.

Michael Hartley: Was an emergency last week but has found it difficult to break into the Bombers' defensive group given the strength of Michael Hurley and Cale Hooker in that area.

Jordan Houlahan: Caught the eye with a huge mark in the VFL earlier this year, but needs to lift his consistency as a half-forward before making a bid to break into the AFL line-up.

Tom Jok: Has had some injury niggles in his first season on the club's rookie list. Is athletic and stood out during the pre-season with his elite running ability, and has spent some time in the ruck in the VFL given his leap.

Jake Long: In what shaped as a make or break year in Long's career, he has not been able to make a dent at senior level. Has played five games in five years at the club.

Irving Mosquito: Is on the sidelines with a hamstring injury at the moment, but Essendon has been happy with his progress in his first year at the club playing as a small forward. Has produced some exciting moments at VFL level.

Trent Mynott: Continues to ply his trade in Essendon's VFL midfield, where he has been a regular ball-winner. Last weekend he gathered 25 touches.

Will Snelling: The Bombers' pick at the NAB AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft has been in strong form in the VFL. Has been kicking goals and laying tackles in a bid to break into the senior side as a small forward.

James Stewart: Would have likely broken into the senior team given injuries in the forward half if not for a long struggle with a groin injury that has ruined his year. Is contracted for next year.  

Brandon Zerk-Thatcher: Could get his chance soon as the Bombers' key position stocks in the back half are hit by injuries. Has developed well and come along nicely in his first two years at the club. 

Who might play in 2019? Zerk-Thatcher and Hartley are good chances to come in as defensive cover for the injured Hurley. Snelling's form will give him a chance, but the rest appear unlikely. - Callum Twomey

Fremantle

Harley Bennell: Officially parted ways with Fremantle on Monday after managing just two appearances since crossing from Gold Coast at the end of 2015. Hopes to continue his career at a third AFL club.

Jason Carter: Recently upgraded to the senior list and could debut on the run home. Shown promise averaging 15.5 disposals from 16 games across half-back and through midfield at Peel.

Hugh Dixon: Hasn't quite taken the next step, with injuries playing a part. Swung into defence recently and has only four goals after 10 last season. Needs a big 2020 campaign in final year of contract.

Stefan Giro: Unable to add to 10 games from debut year before going down with a ruptured ACL early last month. Has the security of two more seasons on his contract and will be upgraded from rookie list.

Scott Jones: Stuck behind Rory Lobb and Sean Darcy most of the year and hasn't added to five senior games. Handy depth option but opportunities going forward will be limited.

Shane Kersten: Limped off the track in January with a plantar fascia issue and hasn't played at any level all year after surgery. Hard to see him earning a new contract.

Lloyd Meek: Yet to debut after two seasons on the list and is gone for the year with a foot fracture. Still only 21 so the 203cm ruckman would seem a reasonable chance for a one-year contract extension.

Tom North: Has no dramas finding the footy in the WAFL (20.8 disposals) but hasn't had a look-in during two seasons on the list. Would hope for a debut if Freo's season slips away, and perhaps a fresh contract.

Dillon O'Reilly: Picked up during the mid-season rookie draft after being surprisingly overlooked at the end of last year. Talented tall forward but needs time to develop.

Sam Sturt: Two concussions have held Freo's top draftee back, however he is another who would be eyeing a late-season debut. Had 20 disposals and two goals for Peel recently.

Luke Valente: Groin issues have seriously hampered the South Australian midfielder in his first year. Has had 18 and 15 disposals after stepping back into WAFL seniors and brings pressure around footy.

Tobe Watson: Steady season at Peel averaging 17 touches after playing WAFL for Swans last year. Has attributes and is rangy, so should be recontracted as a rookie. 

Who might play in 2019? If the Dockers' season slips towards irrelevance, they should give fans something to get excited about by taking a look at a few youngsters. Top draftees Sturt and Valente need to keep building to push their case, while Carter and North will hope for a shot at some stage. - Travis King

Geelong Cats

Oscar Brownless: Rivalling Mark Blicavs as one of the hardest runners at the club in-game for metres per minute. The draftee has only improved as the season has gone on in a wing/half-forward role. 

Wylie Buzza: After playing AFL in each of his first two seasons at the Cats, has consistently been overlooked for the forward/ruck role that has been vacant at various stages of 2019. Out of contract at season's end and faces a big six weeks ahead before finals. 

Nakia Cockatoo: Been a long grind to get his body back to a level to play after back-to-back knee injuries last year. Should play VFL inside the next three weeks. 

Jordan Cunico: Sent for an ankle reconstruction in April, the 22-year-old is closing in on returning to full training. Out of contract. 

Ben Jarvis: Drafted as a medium forward last year, has spent the bulk of his time in defence. Strong in his one-on-one work, has been slowly adding to his offensive work. Being mentored by key defender Lachie Henderson. 

Jamaine Jones: Mixed between small forward and rebounding defender in his second year. The rookie will be hoping for a strong finish to the season to earn a new deal for 2020. 

Jacob Kennerley: Arrived as an elite runner and has been one of the most consistent performers at VFL level between wing and half-back after adding size to his frame. The information sponge of last year's draft class. 

Nathan Kreuger: Drafted as a 19-year-old, the athletic South Australian has been used as the VFL side's swingman. Was close to AFL selection earlier this year and has turned heads with his pressure and groundball ability.

Quinton Narkle: Has injured his hamstring at the wrong time twice this year. Now played three games back and in the AFL frame after his best game of the season on the weekend.

Stefan Okunbor: Troubled by groin soreness early in the year after coming in off a full Gaelic season and has now played five matches. Improves his touch with every match.

Blake Schlensog: Raw key-position prospect with strong competitiveness who has spent time at both ends in his first year. Sat out the opening month to prepare for the rigours of the game and is still learning the requirements of being a professional footballer.   

Scott Selwood: Had sustained two hamstring setbacks before playing a game this year but has since managed the past 10 straight in the VFL. Waiting patiently for an inside midfield role to open up.

Sam Simpson: Has played every VFL match this season and faces uncertainty without a contract. Been an AFL emergency on a number of occasions but hasn't been able to replicate selection like his first two seasons.

Jake Tarca: Starting as a small forward, the South Australian played his best game of the season last weekend as a defender. Has impressed with his reading of the play and will be keen to develop his engine in his second pre-season.

Who might play in 2019? Narkle would appear next in line after an impressive three weeks as a forward/midfielder. Buzza isn't without a chance as a forward/ruck, while Selwood is readymade finals insurance. - Mitch Cleary

Gold Coast Suns

Brayden Crossley: A long-term prospect, Crossley got some games earlier than expected in 2018 and has spent this year in the NEAFL. Has developed slowly and now sitting out with personal leave.

Jacob Dawson: Recently elevated to the senior list, Dawson is regularly among the Suns' best NEAFL players. Works hard and can play midfield, wing or half-back.

Sam Fletcher: The midfielder has been bitten by the injury bug and had minimal continuity since being taken in the supplemental selection period just prior to round one.

Caleb Graham: In his first year, the key-position player was always viewed as a longer-term development. Is a year or two away from pushing for senior selection.

Jack Leslie: The hulking defender had a disrupted pre-season and hasn't quite found his best form. No Rory Thompson or Sam Collins should have opened the door, but injury and form have prevented an elevation.

Jez McLennan: The rebounding half-back taken in last year's draft was slow to adjust to professional lifestyle, but has improved markedly over the past eight weeks. Is getting close to a call-up.

Tom Nicholls: Unfortunately for Nicholls he's playing understudy to the club's co-captain and best player this season – Jarrod Witts. Has not dropped his head though, played well in the NEAFL and could be targeted by other clubs.

Connor Nutting: A versatile player in his second year, Nutting has struggled to progress. He's out of contract and needs a big finish to his year.

Izak Rankine: No luck for the uber-talented South Australian in his first season. Rankine has played just one NEAFL game, had two hamstring injuries and now a hip problem. Needs to string some matches together before he plays seniors.

Mitch Riordan: Taken in the mid-season draft, Riordan spent his first few weeks adjusting to the professional workload before being given a NEAFL game. Unlikely to make his debut but playing for a new contract.

Rory Thompson: The lanky defender ruptured his ACL on the eve of the season. Has a lengthy contract and will be right to go in 2020.

Harrison Wigg: Like Thompson, ruptured his ACL late in the pre-season, making it a two-year injury curse for Wigg since heading to the Suns. Last year he required ankle surgery that wiped out most of his campaign.

Who might play in 2019? There's a couple of chances for players to debut with McLennan and Dawson getting close. If Rankine came back and put together a good month in the NEAFL, he could debut late. - Michael Whiting

GWS Giants

Aiden Bonar: Second-year midfielder has played some strong footy at the lower level but hasn't been able to break into the senior team. A chance this week as Stephen Coniglio's replacement.

Kieren Briggs: The GWS Academy product has played mainly as a key forward and ruckman in the NEAFL, botting 14 goals from his 13 matches. Had his best game of the year last week.

Callum Brown: An athletic prospect, the Irishman is developing in the NEAFL and has shown his most promising signs in recent weeks playing as a key defender.

Dylan Buckley: Injuries have limited the pressure forward to seven NEAFL games and 10 goals, and he's well behind Brent Daniels, Zac Langdon and Bobby Hill.

Jack Buckley: A versatile tall capable of playing at either end of the ground, Buckley has averaged 17 disposals in 11 games in the NEAFL. Looks a fair way from being ready for senior footy.

Jye Caldwell: Groin and calf injuries have limited last year's top draft pick to just five games. He's played some quality footy over the past fortnight as an inside midfielder.

Matthew Flynn: He's taken time to develop but the ruckman looks capable of playing senior footy after his years of work alongside Shane Mumford and Dawson Simpson. Unfortunately suffered a ruptured ACL in his knee last weekend and will require a knee reconstruction.

Connor Idun: The draftee has showed promise in the NEAFL where his one-on-one work has been excellent. Finding his confidence to be an attacking option from the back half.

Xavier O'Halloran: Another draftee hurt by setbacks this year, the latest a serious knee injury. Showed plenty as an onballer in his nine games.

Jonathon Patton: Ruptured his ACL late last year and on track to play some NEAFL footy in the next month if he can get through his final stage of rehabilitation. Training strongly.

Nick Shipley: The tough onballer finds plenty of the footy as an inside mid and has recently starred on the wing. Another who will be looked at to come in for Coniglio this week.

Zach Sproule: The key forward returned from a serious knee injury to kick three goals last week and has an impressive 22.4 from eight games. Will be tough to break into the senior team.

Who might play in 2019? Bonar and Shipley's prospects looked slim a couple of weeks ago but injuries to Josh Kelly (calf) and Coniglio (knee) have opened the door, and Caldwell is also in that mix but might need another fortnight of games. If Patton can get some NEAFL games under his belt he might be looked at. - Adam Curley

Hawthorn

Ryan Schoenmakers: Hawks fans obviously know where Schoenmakers is at. Might have already earned his chance this year, if not for a series of calf and Achilles problems.

Tom Mitchell: Will miss the entire season due to a broken leg suffered in January.

Will Langford: Was delisted after he retired in October last year.

Tim Mohr: Won't play this season after suffering a devastating knee injury in March.

Darren Minchington: He's back playing after multiple hamstring setbacks this season. Can provide some pressure in the forward line, should the Hawks need it late in the year.

Teia Miles: He's played most of the year across half-back in the VFL and has actually impressed, but can't get an opportunity in the senior team. Might now struggle to earn his chance.

Will Golds: It's a development year for the young midfielder. Don't expect to see the rookie on the field this season.

Damon Greaves: Another rookie who probably never expected to play this season.

Mathew Walker: Had an injury interrupted pre-season, but has shown a lot of promise and is highly rated internally as a forward. Might be one to watch in the future.

Jacob Koschitzke: Hasn't played a lot of footy this season, but when he has he's been used at both ends of the field. The key position youngster is seen as a long-term prospect at the club, having arrived as its first pick last year.

Harrison Jones: Had been outstanding at VFL level, but just did his PCL and won't return this season. He would've been close to a senior debut late in the year.

Jackson Ross: One of the leading goalkickers in the VFL this year, but has struggled to earn his chance. He's seen in a similar mould to Jack Gunston, which perhaps explains why he's behind the established forward in the pecking order.

Changkuoth Jiath: He's back playing after suffering a broken jaw earlier in the year. He's seen as a development player, spending most of his time in the backline.

Ned Reeves: He's a project player in the ruck. He's very raw and won't play in 2019. 

Who might play in 2019? You could have virtually pencilled in Jones for an AFL debut, before his knee injury. Ross is starting to bang the door down and might earn his opportunity later in the year. - Riley Beveridge

Melbourne

Toby Bedford: Picked up as part of Melbourne's Next Generation Academy, the small forward has booted six goals over the past month.

Austin Bradtke: Son of Mark (former professional basketballer) and Nicole (former professional tennis player) is a long-term ruck prospect but has spent time in attack. Was pulled out of games earlier this year to do a mini pre-season. 

Kade Chandler: The rookie is averaging 10 disposals in his 12 matches for Casey and has booted nine goals for the campaign.

James Jordon: Looks to be improving. Collected 26 disposals recently against the Northern Blues.

Corey Maynard: Concussion and hip issues have sidelined him at various stages this season. Has been in good touch, averaging more than 25 disposals per game over his past four matches.

Aaron Nietschke: A running machine, the draftee went down with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in February.

Joel Smith: After the Dees' final JLT Community Series clash with Brisbane, the athletic defender pulled up sore with a groin issue and hasn't lined up at either level this year.

Aaron vandenBerg: The hard-nosed Demon has been battling an ankle issue and hasn't been seen at either level this season. Contracted until the end of 2021.

Guy Walker: A former cricketer, the Category B rookie suffered nerve damage to a shoulder just before Christmas and hasn't had a chance to show his wares. It's no certainty Walker will ever play again and he is working in the club's commercial department.

Who might play in 2019? Maynard would appear to be the most likely, although Melbourne is well-stocked for onballers. Jordon was drafted at No.33 last year so the Dees might want to see what he can offer. - Dinny Navaratnam

North Melbourne

Joel Crocker: Is showing promise as a defender-midfielder in his first season, including winning 20-plus possessions four times since recovering from an ankle injury.

Majak Daw: Daw's two VFL games into his comeback from serious hip and pelvis injuries. He's so far played a quarter then a half, respectively, but has looked good.

Ben Jacobs: The horror run continues. A foot sidelined Jacobs for 18 months previously, but head and neck problems have kept him out for the past year and indefinitely.

Tom McKenzie: A debilitating back injury has ruined the speedy midfielder-defender's first season in the AFL.

Red Og Murphy: It's been a season of development for the Irishman, who is yet to have 10 disposals in a game. His aerobic ability appeals to the Roos.

Tom Murphy: Highly rated internally, but ankle problems have prevented the long-kicking defender from adding to his four senior matches last year.

Will Walker: A PCL setback, among other things, wasn't expected to stop Walker being ready for day one of last pre-season, but a resultant tibia fracture ruined his 2019 campaign.

Declan Watson: The third-year key-position player, who required a knee reconstruction in mid-2017, has played at both ends in the VFL but is yet to make his senior debut.

Tom Wilkinson: Managed only four VFL matches because a serious ankle injury, but resumed at the weekend. Will need a strong finish to force his way in this year.

Tristan Xerri: Ruckman who is developing nicely in his second season on the list and contracted for 2020. Generally plays as a second ruck who plays forward.

Who might play in 2019? Luke McDonald's season-ending injury provides an opportunity for Tom Murphy, if he can get his own body right. Daw's situation is a bit unknown but he's clearly good enough to play at AFL level. - Marc McGowan

Port Adelaide

Tobin Cox: The 20-year-old small forward has been electric in the SANFL, kicking 20 goals in 11 games. However, he suffered a lacerated kidney against West Adelaide and is out indefinitely. Expected to be retained on the rookie list.

Martin Frederick: The Category B rookie has provided plenty of drive off half-back in his 13 SANFL games and kicked a brilliant coast-to-coast goal against West Adelaide. The 19-year-old is developing nicely.

Riley Grundy: A tough first season for the 18-year-old key defender, who has battled a couple of injuries and is giving away plenty of size to seasoned SANFL forwards. Contracted for next year.

Sam Hayes: The 20-year-old, 203cm ruckman has made great strides in his second season having recovered from a torn ACL. A huge talent, Hayes has played the past four SANFL games and is contracted until 2021.

Cam Hewett: The 22-year-old midfielder has been a consistent performer in the SANFL in his fourth season on the rookie list. However, it's unlikely to be enough to keep him on the list next year.

Sam Mayes: The 25-year-old – who played 101 games with Brisbane – has impressed with his hard running on the wing, but is behind Karl Amon and Xavier Duursma for a spot in the senior side.

Trent McKenzie: The 27-year-old provides cover for the Power's key defenders. Played 106 games for Gold Coast before joining the Power last year, playing one senior game. Unlikely to be retained next year.

Jake Patmore: The exciting 20-year-old forward hasn't played this season after tearing the ACL in his left knee in a pre-season trial game. Has been re-signed for 2020.

Kai Pudney: The second of Port's Category B rookies, the 19-year-old midfielder has shown plenty of promise in his first SANFL season. The best runner at the club.

Jack Trengove: The former Melbourne co-captain was in outstanding form in the SANFL before suffering a leg injury that's forced him to miss the past six weeks. Finds plenty of the ball, but the 27-year-old's lack of leg speed is why he hasn't played in the senior side this year. Unlikely to be retained next season.

Boyd Woodcock: The opportunist small forward has kicked 14 goals in 13 games in his first season. Will continue to develop his game next year.

Who might play in 2019? Mayes is the most likely to be given a chance in the senior side given he's been close a couple of times. McKenzie will come into calculations if there are injuries to key defenders. - Lee Gaskin

Richmond

Jake Aarts: Signed as a rookie from Richmond's VFL list at the end of last year, Aarts has played 10 VFL matches. Is a fair way back in the pecking order for small forwards at the moment.

Riley Collier-Dawkins: The club's first pick in last year's draft has been working on playing against bigger bodies in the VFL. He's averaging 15 touches from 12 matches, playing as a midfielder and occasionally off half-back.

Luke English: Draftee who had a rough patch in the middle of the year, missing two VFL games with tonsillitis and then another eight weeks with a broken scapula. Is now back playing.

Shaun Grigg: Retired in May due to a knee injury, allowing the club to select Marlion Pickett in the mid-season draft.

Ben Miller: The second-year key position player has played at both ends of the ground in the VFL, but hasn't managed big numbers.

Callum Moore: Would have almost certainly got a run during Richmond's injury crisis if not for a fractured ankle suffered in round eight. Still a few weeks away.

Marlion Pickett: Selected in the mid-season draft, Pickett has been recovering from finger surgery. Has been able to run and shadow teammates in drills, learning team structures, and is getting close to full fitness.

Fraser Turner: Was impressing off the wing and half-back in his debut season until recently, when he was struck down with a stress-related issue in his femur. The club will be cautious in increasing his training loads, considering his age.  

Who might play in 2019? With Richmond edging closer to full strength, and much of this list sidelined by injury, Pickett is the most likely to feature this year, with the club keen to see what he can produce at the top level. - Sarah Black

St Kilda

Sam Alabakis: The Category B rookie lined up in three games with Frankston, where he is aligned as a ruckman to maximise his playing time, but has been pulled out to condition himself to be ready for the elite level after a college basketball career.

Logan Austin: Groin and shoulder issues dogged the defender throughout the pre-season and he eventually went in for a left shoulder operation.

Jack Bytel: Was drafted with back issues, and while the club hoped he might be able to avoid surgery, the inside midfielder eventually succumbed and a line was put through his name for 2019.

Oscar Clavarino: A right ankle syndesmosis injury suffered in February's intraclub meant the tall backman needed to go under the knife. Has since lined up in nine games but Josh Battle was thriving before hurting his right knee. Clavarino's form hasn't demanded selection since.

Max King: After recovering from a right knee reconstruction, played five VFL matches and was very close to a debut before going down with a right ankle syndesmosis issue.

Doulton Langlands: Hamstring surgery limited the rookie through the summer months, delaying his development. Has become an onballer for Sandringham and is impressing.

Jack Mayo: Recruited in the NAB AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft, the forward is a longer-term prospect, but looked good on a wing in the VFL at the weekend.

Paddy McCartin: Suffered his eighth concussion since 2014 during the pre-season and is still experiencing symptoms. Won't play this year.

Bailey Rice: Shifted into attack during the pre-season but struggled in the unfamiliar position. Has since been moved back and was named as an emergency for the first time this season in the loss to Geelong.

Dylan Roberton: A heart condition saw the defibrillator in his chest activated during a JLT Community Series clash with the Western Bulldogs. Ruled out for 2019 but has been running laps at training.

Sam Rowe: Picked up in the supplemental selection period as a depth option after the Saints lost Roberton and Jake Carlisle (back). Sits on 99 career games and interim coach Brett Ratten, who was with Rowe for a season at Carlton, will decide whether the 31-year-old hits triple figures.

Who might play in 2019? The club might want to see what it has in Langlands, who has been named as an emergency for the past five games and would offer speed through the middle, while Rowe has been going well in the VFL as a ruckman and would be a sentimental selection. - Dinny Navaratnam

Sydney Swans

Joel Amartey: An athletic ruck/forward option, the second-year rookie has played some footy in defence in the NEAFL this year.

James Bell: The speedy midfielder has produced some bursts of form at reserves level but hasn't shown the consistency he needs to push for a senior debut.

Darcy Cameron: Dominated the NEAFL last year but could only get one game, and injuries have cruelled him this year just when the Swans desperately need him. Re-injured his quad last week.

Zac Foot: Has shown some exciting signs with his speed and ability to carry the footy in recent weeks, but still has plenty of developing to do.

Cody Hirst: Taken in the mid-season draft, the diminutive midfielder needs time to build himself up for senior footy and needs a big summer in the gym.

Michael Knoll: The former basketballer is raw and still learning the game but has done some good things since arriving in the mid-season draft.

Matt Ling: Still can't get a run at it in his second season. A serious toe injury ruined his first season and a half, now an Achilles issue has him sidelined.

Jack Maibaum: Tore his ACL in the pre-season after some solid footy in the NEAFL last year as a key defender.

Hayden McLean: The key forward suffered a knee injury early in his time at the club after being signed as a rookie during the pre-season but kicked three goals last week in his best game for the club.

Sam Naismith: Didn't manage a game last year because of a pre-season ACL, and still hasn't made it back after complications in rehab. Training strongly but needs at least another fortnight of training before he plays NEAFL.

Toby Pink: Has been tried at both ends of the ground after coming to the club as a key forward but hasn't been able to have a massive impact in his two seasons.

Harry Reynolds: Impressed the Swans' coaching staff in the pre-season with his competitiveness down back, but a back injury has halted his season after one game.

Nick Smith: Has been sorely missed since he tore his hamstring tendon in round 21 last year. A couple of setbacks and more surgery ended his season and is out of contract, so his career is in limbo.

Ryley Stoddart: The quick left-footer played two games last year but hasn't shown any of the form that saw him debut, until the past month. Two outstanding games as a running half back have him in the frame for senior selection again.

Durak Tucker: Arrived at the club at last year's draft midway through his rehabilitation from an ACL and suffered a serious hamstring injury just as he was back to full training, which required surgery.

Sam Wicks: The clever small forward from the Swans academy has averaged 22 possessions per game this year and kicked 12.14. Having a strong season.

Who might play in 2019? Both Cameron and Naismith could possibly get back before the end of the season, but it will be a massive effort given there's just six games to go and the Swans are unlikely to play finals. Knoll and Amartey are being looked at and if Sinclair doesn't get back, one of them will be tried before the year is out. Stoddart has had two outstanding weeks in the NEAFL and could play as soon as this week. - Adam Curley

West Coast Eagles

Brayden Ainsworth: Did some OK things in three games last year but has drifted further from the fringes in his second season. Contracted for 2020 and will need a step forward.

Matthew Allen: A regular emergency, Allen is yet to debut in his fourth season. Has produced some dominant midfield efforts in the WAFL, however breaking into the Eagles' engine room is tough.

Patrick Bines: Category B rookie has been slowed by a hernia and managed just one WAFL appearance for two disposals. Is a big boy so might be persisted with.

Hamish Brayshaw: Can find the footy (21.2 disposals in nine WAFL games). Whether he has enough tricks to make it at the next level remains to be seen.

Keegan Brooksby: Big chance to add to his 14 games for Gold Coast this Sunday against Melbourne after Nic Naitanui's ankle injury. The 29-year-old has averaged 30 hitouts and 12.6 touches in the WAFL.

Harry Edwards: One of several Eagles struck down by foot issues and remains on the injury list after an encouraging start as a tall defender. Has promise and should be granted another rookie deal.

Luke Foley: A project player who has been used across several roles this year in the WAFL, including half-back. Slightly-built but runs all day and needs to kick on in 2020.

Fraser McInnes: Captain of the reserves outfit and there in case of an emergency shortage of big men. Played 14 games in eight seasons on the list.

Kurt Mutimer: Played four games in 2017, however hasn't been sighted since and unlikely to be on the list beyond this campaign despite steady WAFL form.

Xavier O'Neill: Interrupted pre-season didn't help the Eagles' top draft pick's hopes of making an impact. Needs to find more of it at WAFL level, averaging only 12.2 touches in 11 games.

Brodie Riach: Learning on the job as a category B rookie and shown signs across half-back in the WAFL he might have a future. Averages 11 touches in 12 senior state league games.

Francis Watson: Running half-back has a highlights reel to get any fan excited and has seemed close to a debut several times without a call up. Has a contract for 2020, which could be make or break for the 23-year-old.

Bailey Williams: The red-headed big man is showing a bit as a forward-ruck, even to the point where has been discussed to replace Naitanui. Has great athleticism for a 199cm tall, and kicked 11 goals and averaged a dozen hitouts in the WAFL. 

Who might play in 2019? Brooksby is a big chance against Melbourne this Sunday in Alice Springs, while Watson and Allen are on the fringes and will need a few injuries for their chance to arrive. - Travis King

Western Bulldogs

Tom Boyd: Retired during the season after battling mental health issues and prolonged injuries. Playing for North Ringwood in the EFL with friends. 

Ben Cavarra: Kicked four goals in a game recently, as he finds form returning from a hamstring injury. Could be in contention as a defensive small forward.  

Fergus Greene: Out for the season after suffering a 'shoulder instability episode' in his return game from an ankle injury.

Lin Jong: Kicked two goals and had 21 disposals against Casey last weekend, but probably sits behind Wallis and West in the midfield depth.

Buku Khamis: Khamis is a backline project for the Bulldogs and isn’t on the cusp of a senior call up just yet, but has played some solid games.  

Brad Lynch: Showed great signs in the back half of 2018, but has struggled with consistency in the VFL. Behind Hayden Crozier and Jason Johanissen in the half-back pecking order.

Dale Morris: Morris ruptured his ACL in March and has already notched up a couple of games in the VFL. His senior return could be very close.

Liam Picken: Retired during the season after dealing with ongoing concussion symptoms following a knock in a 2018 pre-season game.

Callum Porter: Consistently racks up the tackles and the Dogs rate his courage as an inside midfielder. He’s battled shoulder injuries this year.

Jordon Sweet: Played an excellent game against Port Melbourne a few weeks ago with 60 hitouts. He’s still raw, but the Bulldogs are impressed with his development.

Laitham Vandermeer: The Bulldogs love Vandermeer’s speed, endurance and kicking and have been rotating him between half back, the wing and half forward. One to watch.

Lukas Webb: Battling an ankle injury and is still at least three weeks away from a return. He’s just started running again.

Rhylee West: Close to a senior debut after a strong season in the VFL. In the mix with Mitch Wallis to replace the injured Toby McLean this week.

Who might play in 2019? Morris should get a call up soon, and West just needs to keep banging down the door. Cavarra and Webb could be a chance later in the year.