We've scattered back through each National Draft of the past decade to uncover every club's bargain pickup.
This list looks at each club's ability to recruit young prospects in the National Draft, whether it be top-end talents or diamonds in the rough.
Each player was selected primarily by their value for pick, with many players being taken outside the first round. Some players have demanded a spot despite an early draft night selection, however these picks have been reserved for the absolute cream of the crop.
This list only includes National Draft selections - excluding Rookie and/or Mini Draft picks, while father-son and Academy selections have also not been considered.ย
14. Richmond
Shai Bolton (pick 29, 2016)
Bolton managed only nine games through his first two years, but since a breakout 2020 season he has established himself as one of the most exciting players in the AFL with his speed, agility, forward craft and spectacular marking ability.
Playing in two of Richmond's illustrious premiership sides, Bolton has earned the freedom to play with flare and has been able to develop significant confidence on a winning team, recently earning an All-Australian spot after a brilliant 2022 season.
As the Tigers continue to improve their list and look to reach premiership form once again, a 24-year-old Bolton in 2023 has a chance to tear the league apart and become the biggest opposition headache in the competition.
Honourable mention/s: Jack Graham, pick 53 (2016), Noah Balta, pick 25 (2017)
