IT'S A tough time of the year for some footballers as exit interviews take place and careers at clubs end. But every player has his assets and every club can be tempted by upside.
After an outstanding season, ruckman Paddy Ryder would not be short of options on the open market if he did decide to leave Essendon, just as Magpie Dayne Beams would command a long-term deal if pried away from Collingwood.
There are lower profile players, however, whose futures in the game are uncertain after either being told their services are no longer required or pushing for a move in search of more opportunities.
Some have immaculate CVs, like Ryan O'Keefe, while others haven't found the spotlight in their time in the game.
Richmond took a number of risks during last year's drafting period and some didn't work out, with former Brisbane Lions forward Todd Banfield already off the list.
It's worth remembering, however, Anthony Miles was an unwanted zone selection at GWS, and now he is a prized member of the Tigers' midfield. He was certainly worth a look, and here are some others that might be in 2014.
Ryan O'Keefe (Sydney Swans)
Age: 33
Games played in 2014: 4
O'Keefe played the first four games at AFL level this season but couldn't break back into the Swans' line-up, spending the rest of the year in the NEAFL. A strong end to the season saw him kick six goals in one match, win 36 possessions in another and continually battle at the coalface. Much like Daniel Cross at Melbourne this year, O'Keefe could have at least one more good year in him if given the chance. An assistant coach in waiting, he would still add value if not playing at senior level each week.
Who would be interested: The Western Bulldogs' young midfield is taking shape, and those players might benefit from O'Keefe's presence as a teammate and teacher.
Mitch Clark (Melbourne)
Age: 26
Games played in 2014: 0
A well publicised battle with clinical depression saw the Melbourne key forward retire from the game in April, but he is hoping to relaunch his career at a new club in 2015. Clark hasn't played at AFL level since round four, 2013, with a serious foot injury ending that season. Back in 2012 his potential was on display against Greater Western Sydney, kicking four goals in the first quarter before injury struck. The 26-year-old has a lot of upside but comes with significant risk.
Who would be interested: The risk is only worth it for clubs in finals contention. Has already been linked to Hawthorn, Collingwood and most recently Essendon.
Mitch Robinson
Age: 25
Games played 2014: 12
It's likely Robinson would still be a required player at Carlton were it not for his involvement in an early-morning brawl and the fact he lied to the club about it. He has been put on the trade table now, but his value has likely dropped after a season interrupted by injury and suspension. At his best, Robinson is a ruthless tackling machine who can win the contested ball. His toughness, however, can spill over and lead to suspension.
Who would be interested: West Coast is crying out for a big-bodied midfielder to support Matt Priddis.
Heritier Lumumba
Age: 27
Games played 2014: 21
A bad dynamic has developed between Lumumba and the club he represented in the 2010 premiership, and he is likely to find a new home in the upcoming exchange period, despite being contracted. A dashing half-back who has more recently pushed onto a wing, Lumumba averaged 20 possessions in 2014 and is often creative. It is clear he is not seeking a new club because of any perceived shortcoming in his game and he would add value to most lists.
Who would be interested: Has met with Melbourne coach Paul Roos and could form part of a trade for Mitch Clark.
The 2010 All Australian appears certain to leave Collingwood in the exchange period. Picture: AFL Media
Clinton Jones (St Kilda)
Age: 30
Games played in 2014: 16
A victim of St Kilda's aggressive rebuilding strategy, the midfielder was delisted immediately after the club's last game this season. A strong tagger when the Saints were at their peak between 2008 and 2010, he has been replaced by run-with players Mav Weller and Tom Curren. He started this season well, racking up 39 possessions in round one, and held his spot until round 15. A hard-running workhorse to the end, he appears to have more in him and is keen to play on.
Who would be interested: As a delisted free agent he may need to bide his time through the exchange period before his future becomes clear. Wouldn't look out of place on the Gold Coast as a senior player.
Terry Milera (St Kilda)
Age: 26
Games played in 2014: 5
A clever half-forward, Milera has flashed in and out of games in his time at St Kilda and is seeking a move to a South Australian club for personal reasons. The 26-year-old, who was a mature-age recruit in 2011, played just five senior games in 2014 and spent the majority of the year in the VFL. He was contracted for next season, but the Saints will honour his request for a trade, granted there is interest from Adelaide or the Power. It is hard to see either club thinking of him being more than a depth player given his output in 30 games. An ability to push into the midfield – which hasn't been possible because of injuries – would help his prospects.
Who would be interested: It appears Adelaide and Port Adelaide are the only options here. Their interest is unclear and Port would appear well stocked with crafty half-forwards.
Leroy Jetta (Essendon)
Age: 26
Games played in 2014: 2
After a solid season at VFL level, clubs may be temped by the 26-year-old's potential. An unrestricted free agent, Jetta has told Essendon he would like a new football home, but he was likely to be delisted anyway. In the VFL, Jetta racked up some solid numbers as a goalkicking midfielder, but he was also susceptible to a tag. He is keen to play on but interested clubs are yet to emerge. Has shown he is capable of playing a full season at AFL level, nailing a spot down in 2011 and 2012 as a young Bomber.
Who would be interested: West Coast needs pace and creativity in its forward line as well as speed in the midfield. Could be a fit.
Leroy Jetta booted two goals in his final game for the Bombers in round five. Picture: AFL Media
Shaun McKernan (Adelaide)
Age: 24
Games played in 2014: 2
The tall forward/ruckman entertained the idea of returning to Victoria at the end of last season but there was little interest and he signed a one-year deal to stay with the Crows. His 2014 season was disappointing, playing the opening two matches before spending the rest of the year in the SANFL. The saving grace that could tempt a club to take a risk was his finish to the year, playing some big games in the SANFL and influencing games as a ruckman. He has often looked out of place as a forward and his future may be as an undersized ruckman (196cm) who spends brief stints forward, rather than the other way around.
Who would be interested: The Western Bulldogs weren't moved to make a trade last year, but perhaps another season of key position trouble could get them interested.
James Gwilt (St Kilda)
Age: 28
Games played in 2014: 17
An undersized key defender, Gwilt has battled taller opponents most of his career and done a reasonable job of it. The Saints, however, recruited tall backmen Luke Delaney and Josh Bruce at the end of last season and Gwilt has become surplus to requirements. He was used in attack at times this season and finished the year by keeping Adelaide's James Podsiadly quiet.
Who would be interested: Melbourne. The Dees have reportedly spoken to Gwilt already and need a back-up for the outgoing Frawley. The Western Bulldogs also need to strengthen their key posts. Gwilt could be a good fit for them, or the Brisbane Lions.
Kyle Hardingham
Age: 26
Games played in 2014: 8
Opportunities have dried up for Hardingham at Essendon and it is understood he is seeking a move to a new club, where he can figure more prominently. A popular player at the Bombers, he played his best football in the backline in 2011 and 2012, playing 43 out of a possible 45 games. He has since managed just eight games and is out of contract. His versatility and strong marking could attract clubs.
Who would be interested: Recruited from East Fremantle, both the Dockers and Eagles would be expected to make enquiries about the West Australian. More opportunities would be expected at the Eagles.
