With all the moves of the 2023 AFL Trade Period done and dusted, we saw some big players change clubs. Some shock decisions alongside some deals that seemed to be done weeks ago were finalised ahead of Wednesday's deadline.
Nevertheless, teams have done what they can to build up their side in the hopes that 2024 might be the year that takes them a step closer to the ultimate glory of winning the flag.
But if we took all the players involved during this period, what is the best team that we could create out of those players?
Here we have named our best 23-man side consisting of players moved in the free agency and trade period.
1. Defenders
FB: Tom Doedee (BL), Esava Ratugolea (PA), Ben McKay (ES)
The now-former Crow Doedee starts off our side. Whilst 2023 was an injury-riddled year, it is undeniable that he is a solid defender. A perfect fit for the Lions who might be a replacement player for Ryan Lester, gifting more assistance for Harris Andrews to roam and play off his man. Ratugolea has been an excellent utility for Geelong but it may be expected that his role might be more involved defensively, alongside Zerk-Thatcher as well, He will be aiming to improve the Power defence after a poor finals campaign for the Port backline. McKay may also provide a significant boost for Essendon. With the departure of Zerk-Thatcher, the Bombers needed a replacement. The biggest weakness for Essendon appeared to be defence, particularly in the second half of the year.
HB: Nick Coffield (WB), Massimo D'Ambrosio, Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (PA)
A speedy half-backline finishes our back six. The speed of Coffield will be of benefit to the Western Bulldogs as ball movement seemed to be one of the issues that caused the Bulldogs to fall out of the finals picture. While D'Ambrosio is yet to show his full potential, his run from half-back earns him the spot in our best. Zerk-Thatcher will be a handy link for Port. Whether he plays along the full-back line or half-back, he could play as a one-on-one defender deep in the back line or play up a little to be an intercept when the opponent tries to move down the wing.
