DESPITE Will Langford's delisting and subsequent retirement, he will be re-drafted by Hawthorn as a rookie next month for list management reasons.
It was necessary since he was contracted until the end of 2019 after signing a four-year deal at the end of 2015.
Langford, 26, was cut by the Hawks and opted to end his career.
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This move will give the Hawks another spot on its senior list.
Hawthorn is believed to be interested in recruiting former St Kilda forward Darren Minchington, either as a delisted free agent or as a rookie.
Minchington, 24, didn't manage to play a senior game this year after being cruelled by injuries, having dealt with hip issues and left knee surgery.
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He has lined up in 28 matches throughout his career since being recruited in the 2011 NAB AFL Rookie Draft by the Saints.
At his best, Minchington is dynamic and offers forward pressure.
He has proved a thorn in the side of one of Hawthorn's main rivals in Geelong, having booted three goals on each of the three occasions he has faced the Cats.
