With clubs required to finalise their lists ahead of the upcoming draft, there are always a few unlucky players who find themselves on the chopping block.

With former delisted free agents such as Ricky Henderson and Jarryd Lyons making a strong impact at their new clubs, we take a look at the next wave of delisted players, why they should be given another shot at AFL level and where they could land.

In no order, here are five delisted players who deserve a lifeline:

Back

1. Mitch Brown

After managing to keep Joe Daniher out of Sydney's clutches at the trade table, Essendon have delisted Brown on the final list lodgement day. The 29-year-old joined the Bombers in 2016, playing a crucial role in the absence of the club's banned players.

In 2019, Brown tallied three or more goals on four occasions, finishing the season with a career-best 21 goals from 16 games, proving his ability to compete at the highest level.

With Shaun McKernan and James Stewart ahead of him, the 70-game player was squeezed out of Windy Hill, but his versatility as forward and backman makes him an attractive prospect for clubs in need of key position depth.

Possible landing spots: Collingwood, Brisbane, Port Adelaide

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 30: Mitch Brown of the Bombers of the Bombers handballs during the round six AFL match between the Essendon Bombers and the Melbourne Demons at Etihad Stadium on April 30, 2017 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)
Back