After storming to a Grand Final berth in 2022, the Swans would surely have considered a large portion of their 2023 campaign a disappointment.

Sydney needed every ounce of its late-season surge to qualify for finals action, with an elimination final loss to Carlton bringing their September venture to a quick end.

In response, the Swans' list management committee sought to bolster the club's list; making numerous additions all around the field, including snatching marquee veterans Brodie Grundy and Taylor Adams, who were once teammates at Collingwood.

Sydney also introduced ex-Demon James Jordon and former Fremantle defender Joel Hamling as free-agent acquisitions, while, conversely, the Swans offloaded Dylan Stephens via a trade with North Melbourne and farewelled champion Lance Franklin and veteran ruckman Tom Hickey to retirement.

Developmental ruckman Will Green, Academy-linked midfielder Caiden Cleary, and No. 53 choice Patrick Snell were welcomed via the 2023 National Draft in November.

We assessed Sydney's list and produced our projected best 23 for the Swans as they prepare for a telling 2024 campaign.

BEST 23s:

ADELAIDE CROWS,ย BRISBANE LIONS, CARLTON, COLLINGWOOD, ESSENDON, FREMANTLE,ย GEELONG CATS,ย GOLD COAST SUNS,ย GWS GIANTS, HAWTHORN, MELBOURNE,ย NORTH MELBOURNE,ย PORT ADELAIDE,ย RICHMOND, ST KILDA.

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1. Defenders

Veterans Dane Rampe and Jake Lloyd will continue to lead John Longmire's squad from behind the ball, with a large burden set to fall on the shoulders of key defender Tom McCartin, whose brother, Paddy, unfortunately succumbed to retirement following persistent concussion issues.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 29: Tomย McCartin of the Swans looks on during the round seven AFL match between Sydney Swans and Greater Western Sydney Giants at Sydney Cricket Ground, on April 29, 2023, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Hamling's fresh presence figures to play a key part in filling the void left by the departed McCartin, with the ex-Docker bringing premiership pedigree from his time at the Kennel.

Nick Blakey, Braeden Campbell, and Oliver Florent are apt rebounders from half-back, while veteran Harry Cunningham lingers as depth or a tactical substitute option.

Aaron Francis presents as needed depth at a minimum, with the long-serving Lewis Melican representing Sydney's other key-position defending option.

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