This year's draft will see another injection of youth into all 18 clubs, bringing an x-factor and unpredictability which can be vital in achieving success.
However, with the majority of modern day premiership sides boasting an average age of 24+, clubs also need experienced and reliable veterans to help lead them to victory.
Here isย Zero Hanger'sย Top 10 players aged 30 and over ahead of the 2020 season.
An honourable mention goes to 37-year-old Shaun Burgoyne who couldn't quite crack our top 10 but deserves a mention as the league's oldest player.
8. Shane Edwards
Shane Edwards is the first of three Richmond players on this list and has been a crucial aspect of their enormous success in recent years. The South Australians impact on the club's 2017 and 2019 flags has flown under the radar, with discussions dominated by superstars Dustin Martin, Alex Rance and Tom Lynch.
However, Edwards has made a name for himself in the Tigers midfield and is important around the stoppage when the likes of Martin and Cotchin are drawing heavy attention.
Edwards averaged 21.9 disposals and 3.6 clearances in 2019, both career-bests, to earn the Jack Titus Medal for a second-placed finish in the club's best-and-fairest. The 31-year-olds crowning jewel has been his ability to create opportunities for his teammates. In 2018, Edwards finished second in the AFL for score assists and earned his maiden All-Australian jacket in the same year.
