Delisted Geelong youngster Mitch Hardie has signed with Melbourne's VFL affiliate club, Casey Demons, for the 2025 season.
Hardie was let go by the Cats in October and admitted there had been some AFL interest heading into the off-season.
However, the SANFL graduate was found searching for an opportunity when the Demons came calling.
Hardie's inclusion to the VFL club is a significant coup for the former powerhouse side, joining the likes of West Coast midfielder Jai Culley and ex-Demon Deakyn Smith, who spent 2024 at North Melbourne's reserves.
Albeit Melbourne's list has hit its limit, it hasn't stopped the club from inviting Culley, Hardie and Kysaiah Pickett's uncle Roy George to train with them over the summer.
The move could be in case of a long-term injury to a current-listed player, which could open up a vacancy.
Casey is looking to improve a disappointing 2024 campaign that yielded five victories, finishing the year in 17th place.
Hardie's signing could put him in contention for an AFL recall during the pre-season supplemental selection period (SSP) or mid-season intake.
The SSP window closes on February 21, while the mid-season draft is anticipated to be in late May after the conclusion of Round 11.