Richmond's VFL program could produce yet another AFL-ready talent in 2025, with small forward Massimo Raso emerging as a leading Mid-Season Draft prospect out of Punt Road.

The Tigers have helped nurture a line of VFL prospects who have gone on to find list spots at the higher level in recent years, with Sam Davidson, Sam Durham, Massimo D'Ambrosio and Richmond's own James Trezise and Tylar Young among those to earn promotions.

Davidson has flourished in his start to life with the Western Bulldogs, while both Durham and D'Ambrosio are among the best recruits out of the Mid-Season Draft in its short history.

Raso could be the next VFL Tiger to earn the interest from AFL clubs and secure himself a contract by the end of May, with the Keilor and Western Jets product quickly making a name for himself in the yellow and black.

The 171cm talent, who turns 19 later this month, added to his rich vein of form on Saturday against Brisbane's VFL outfit, booting three first-half goals and ending his third game at the level with 11 disposals to his name.

The performance followed a bright opening fortnight to his 2025 campaign, with the crafty front-half threat averaging 21.5 disposals, 5.5 clearances, 3.5 inside 50s and a goal per game across his matchups with Coburg and Sandringham.

Raso's instant impact on the state league scene could be a purple patch that catches the eye of AFL scouts ahead of this year's mid-season intake, which is scheduled for May 28.

The door is likely open for Raso to feature for the Young Guns squad in their annual two-game trial block that stages some of Victoria's best Mid-Season Draft hopefuls in the lead-up to the count.

Raso featured in one of those showcase matches last year, representing Vic Metro against the Young Guns, with the Deer Park-tied talent kicking multiple goals to show his value early into his draft season.

Richmond's VFL squad could also be home to several other Mid-Season Draft options, with athletic defender Mutaz El Nour coming close to selection in recent years.

The 23-year-old earned AFL attention before his move to Richmond, having broken out with the Northern Bullants in 2022. He has started the year off on the right foot, with his latest showing against the Lions pocketing a return of 20 disposals and four intercept possessions.

Young forward Sam Toner is another who came close to a top flight promotion, having been invited to the state combine last year, and has since linked up with the Tigers for 2025, while Jhett Haeata and Mohammed Yassine will be others potentially in consideration.