Mature-aged draft selections have proven to be fruitful finds throughout the course of recruiting in the AFL, and 2024 could have more diamonds picked from the rough.

Last year alone saw Geelong pluck Werribee star Shaun Mannagh and Western Australian flanker Lawson Humphries at the National Draft, with both players going on to have key roles in the Cats' finals run to end their maiden season at AFL level.

This year's draft pool could offer further mature-aged options, whether that be state league stars, over-age prospects or former AFL-listed names.

Here we list nine of the best mature-aged draft prospects for the 2024 AFL Draft...

3. Liam McMahon

Position: Key Forward
Height:ย 197cm
State:ย Victoria
Club:ย Carlton VFL

McMahon enjoyed a career-best season with the Blues' VFL team this year, kicking multiple goals in all 16 of his appearances in 2024.

The former Collingwood listed tall ended his season with 45 goals, finishing second for majors in the competition behind Port Melbourne's Billy Gowers despite the limited season.

A second chance for McMahon could be found via the draft, with a rookie list spot more likely, while Carlton could be prepared to promote the 22-year-old to their AFL list and keep him in the navy blue.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 29: Liam McMahon of the Blues (C) celebrates kicking a goal during the round 19 VFL match between Collingwood Magpies and Carlton Blues at Victoria Park on July 29, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Other clubs keen on a key forward who could have a quick impact are sure to have some attention placed on McMahon.