The AFL recently wrote to all clubs regarding exemptions to re-list Category-B players due to exceptional circumstances.

Following submissions from clubs, the AFL would like to advise the following:

Due to COVID throughout 2020 and 2021, the disruption to development, and long-term injury, the AFL has advised Collingwood that they can re-list Tom Wilson as a Category-B rookie in 2023 for one year should no other club select him in the 2022 NAB National Draft.

Due to COVID throughout 2020 and 2021 and the disruption to development, the AFL has advised Essendon that they can re-list Cian McBride as a Category-B rookie in 2023 for one year should no other cub select them in the 2022 NAB National Draft.

The AFL will consider any additional reasonable requests from clubs with Category-B rookies whose development has been disrupted due to COVID-19.