Your ultimate guide to the 2021 AFL Free Agency and Trade Period

On the eve of the trade and free agency periods, we've looked to cover every name in the mix to potentially move clubs this off-season.

Along with potential targets and departures, each club has managed to lock away a number of key names for next season throughout the course of this year, while clubs will also be looking into their draft plans.

For all 18 clubs we've listed who may come and go, draft picks at every club and those that have inked new deals in 2021.

The dates for the Free Agency Period will begin on Friday, October 1 - Friday, October 8, while dates for the Trade Period will span from Monday, October 4 - Wednesday, October 13.

Adelaide

Targets

Adelaide will welcome versatile Swan Jordan Dawson this off-season, with the South Australian opting for the Crows over their cross-town rivals at Alberton in what is a major coup for Matthew Nicks' rebuild planning. The Crows have been linked to Suns' third overall draft pick, which is believed to be on offer to keen suitors.

Departures

Defender Jake Kelly will exercise his free agency rights and join Essendon in the early stages of the exchange window. Have delisted veteran duo Tom Lynch and Daniel Talia, with the former set to join North Melbourne in a potential player-coaching role. Talia has gained reported interest from the Bombers, Tigers and Cats.

Re-signed

Sam Berry (2024), James Borlase (2022), Jordon Butts (2023), Brayden Cook (2024), Tom Doedee (2023), Darcy Fogarty (2023), Lachlan Gollant (2022), William Hamill (2024), Rory Laird (2026), Fischer McAsey (2023), Andrew McPherson (2023), Lachlan Murphy (2023), Nick Murray (2023), Tariek Newchurch (2022), Reilly O'Brien (2025), Patrick Parnell (2022), Luke Pedlar (2024), Kieran Strachan (2023), Taylor Walker (2022), Josh Worrell (2023)

Draft Picks

4, 23, 37, 59, 63

Brisbane 

Targets

Believed to be looking for height to support first-string ruckman Oscar McInerney with Eric Hipwood set to miss a majority of 2022 season. American Pie Mason Cox, delisted Blues tall Levi Casboult and unfavoured Geelong ruckman Darcy Fort are believed to be of interest to fill the void.

Departures

Archie Smith has requested a trade in hope of seeking greater opportunities elsewhere, but the inexperienced tall is yet to declare his preferred destination.

Re-signed

Marcus Adams (2023), Zac Bailey (2024), Jarryd Lyons (2024), Rhys Mathieson (2023), Lincoln McCarthy (2024), Hugh McCluggage (2024), Connor McFadyen (2022), Oscar McInerney (2024), Carter Michael (2022), Cameron Rayner (2025), Daniel Rich (2022), Mitch Robinson (2022) Harry Sharp (2023), Brandon Starcevich (2024), Dayne Zorko (2022)

Draft Picks

14, 18, 47, 51, 57, 73

Carlton 

Targets

Are set to open negotiations with Fremantle after gun midfielder Adam Cerra requested a move to Ikon Park. Are also set to acquire Swans free agent George Hewett in the coming weeks, while interest in Eagles wingman Jarrod Brander has grown.

Departures

Midfielder-defender Sam Petrevski-Seton has requested a trade to West Coast, and the aforementioned Brander could be part of negotiations in getting a deal agreed between both clubs. Lochie O'Brien's future at Princes Park is a concern, with no new deal in sight.

Re-signed

Patrick Cripps (2027), Ed Curnow (2022), Brodie Kemp (2023), Matthew Kennedy (2022), Harry McKay (2023), Nic Newman (2023), Marc Pittonet (2023), Jack Silvagni (2023)

Draft Picks

6, 25, 61

Collingwood

Targets

Out-of-favour Bulldog Patrick Lipinski has requested a trade away from Whitten Oval, with the Magpies set to swoop on the midfielder. Collingwood are also set to move for Cats tall Nathan Kreuger, who is capable of playing at either end of the ground. Magpies will likely look to part ways with future draft picks in order to package enough draft points to secure father-son prospect Nick Daicos. Expecting a less busy off-season for the Magpies this year.

Departures

Yet to see any of Isaac Chugg, Mason Cox, Max Lynch, John Noble, Scott Pendlebury, Jay Rantall, Brayden Sier or Josh Thomas have new deals for 2022. Cox has gained interest elsewhere, but the same doesn't look to be the case for Sier. Pendlebury has flagged he will remain at the Holden Centre for next season. Max Lynch has gained reported interest elsewhere from clubs looking to add height.

Re-signed

Aiden Begg (2022), Trent Bianco (2022), Ashley Johnson (2022), Trey Ruscoe (2022), Jack Ginnivan (2022)

Draft Picks

36, 39, 41, 45

Essendon

Targets

Will acquire Crows defender Jake Kelly via free agency, who will be a great addition to a growing Bombers backline that will work under Tigers champion Alex Rance in 2022. Have shown interest in Saints hard-nut Ben Long, while Luke Dunstan and Daniel Talia have also been linked to Tullamarine.

Departures

The Bombers have enjoyed a stellar season of re-signings, with only Dylan Clarke and Martin Gleeson unsigned for 2022. Some concerns surrounding the pair's future, which may not be decided until after the exchange period.

Re-signed

Kaine Baldwin (2022), Tom Cutler (2022), Matt Guelfi (2022), Brayden Ham (2022), Tom Hird (2022), Harrison Jones (2023), Cian McBride (2022), Zach Merrett (2027), Darcy Parish (2023), Andrew Phillips (2022), Mason Redman (2023), Jordan Ridley (2026), Devon Smith (2023), Will Snelling (2023), Jake Stringer (2024), Alec Waterman (2022), Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (2023)

Draft Picks

11, 48, 53

Fremantle

Targets

Are likely to land Cats speedster Jordan Clark, but negotiations could drag on as both clubs currently don't see eye-to-eye on the 20-year-old's worth as far as exchangeable draft selections. Clark is yet to formally request a move however, with Matthew Scarlett's departure from Kardinia Park potentially a factor to keep the utility in Geelong. Skipper Nat Fyfe has flagged the club is likely to look toward the draft to add to its key-forward stocks.

Departures

Will lose Adam Cerra in what is a major blow for the Dockers. Will acquire Pick 6 and potentially more from the Blues, with Fremantle likely to request a decent return. Rory Lobb is understood to be exploring his options, but with a hefty salary might remain in Purple. Darcy Tucker is yet re-sign, but a new deal is reportedly in the works alongside Mitch Crowden, per AFL Media. 

Re-signed

Bailey Banfield (2022), Andrew Brayshaw (2025), Heath Chapman (2024), Travis Colyer (2022), Sean Darcy (2024), Lloyd Meek (2023), David Mundy (2022), Lachlan Schultz (2023), Sam Switkowski (2023), Matt Taberner (2024), Josh Treacy (2023), Nathan Wilson (2022)

Draft Picks

8, 27

Geelong

Targets

Are understood to be showing some interest in Peter Ladhams to bolster their rucks stocks, while delisted Crows defender Daniel Talia could be a viable recruit after the retirement of Lachie Henderson and the large void left in defence during Tom Stewart's absence through injury. The Cats, Bombers and Tigers have been linked to Talia, who is a delisted free agent. Have also been linked to Hawks forward Oliver Hanrahan.

Departures

Could see a number of out-of-favour players depart Kardinia Park, with Jordan Clark (Fremantle), Nathan Kreuger (Collingwood) and Darcy Fort (Brisbane) all on the radar of rivals. Charlie Constable is also open to his options for the future as he remains without a deal for 2022.

Re-signed

Tom Atkins (2023), Jed Bews (2024), Sam De Koning (2023), Cameron Guthrie (2025), Jack Henry (2024), Jake Kolodjashnij (2024), Gryan Miers (2023), Quinton Narkle (2022), Esava Ratugolea (2023), Joel Selwood (2022), Cooper Stephens (2023)

Draft Picks

30, 32, 34, 52

Gold Coast

Targets

Are tipped to sign Mabior Chol in the early hours of the free agency period in what will be a strong signing for the struggling Suns, with Chol to work as support to both Jarrod Witts and Ben King in the ruck and forward areas respectively. Have been closely linked to Fremantle tall Rory Lobb, however they would need the Dockers to pay a portion of Lobb's sizeable wage. Luke Dunstan, Levi Casboult and Oliver Hanrahan have also been of reported interest for the Suns. Delisted Power veteran Hamish Hartlett has also made contact with the club.

Departures

Will Brodie and Darcy Macpherson are open to moves elsewhere if deals can satisfy, while the Suns have reportedly placed their first-round selection - Pick 3 - on offer to any keen suitors.

Re-signed

Sam Collins (2025), Sam Day (2023), Jy Farrar (2023), Sean Lemmens (2024), Wil Powell (2025), Jeremy Sharp (2023)

Draft Picks

3, 19, 22, 43, 55, 58, 66

Greater Western Sydney

Targets

Are expecting a quiet trade window and will have a large focus on utilising Pick 2 - acquired from Collingwood - at the draft, unless an appealing offer comes there way.

Departures

Jeremy Finlayson is open to a move elsewhere for the betterment of his young family, having reportedly held a medical with Port Adelaide. Skipper Stephen Coniglio looks set to remain at the Giants, while young tall Kieren Briggs had been linked to the Lions earlier this year, however speculation looks to have settled. Carlton also had reported interest in Jake Riccardi, who is set to re-sign with the Giants. Delisted utility Sam Reid is looking to land an AFL lifeline.

Re-signed

Lachie Ash (2023), Brent Daniels (2025), Toby Greene (2026), Jesse Hogan (2022), Jacob Hopper (2023), Josh Kelly (2029), Conor Stone (2024), Sam Taylor (2025)

Draft Picks

2, 13, 50, 68

Hawthorn

Targets

Have missed some of their rumoured targets, with the Hawks having been linked to Dockers duo Adam Cerra and Lachie Schultz, with the latter re-signing despite an offer from Hawthorn. New coach Sam Mitchell is set to attack the draft in a bid to inject more youth.

Departures

Looking more unlikely that they part with any of their big names despite speculation surrounding Tom Mitchell and Jack Gunston throughout this year. Oliver Hanrahan has been linked to the Suns and Cats, and will join Tom O'Brien in having to wait on his future. O'Brien understood to be gaining interest from Port Adelaide in a possible return to his home state of South Australia.

Re-signed

Lachie Bramble (2023), Luke Breust (2023), Blake Hardwick (2024), Dylan Moore (2023), James Worpel (2023), Emerson Jeka (2022), Jacob Koschitzke (2023), Ben McEvoy (2022), Ned Reeves (2023)

Draft Picks

5, 21, 24, 56, 62

Melbourne

Targets

Have missed out on luring Adam Cerra from Fremantle, who has nominated the Blues as his preferred landing spot. Were also linked to Hawks forward Jack Gunston, but the veteran Hawk looks likely to remain at Waverley.

Departures

Jake Melksham is reportedly assessing his options for the future and could land at a third club. Demons were able to retain key forward Sam Weideman as a major retention signing for the club. Delisted Demon Aaron Vandenberg is also set to explore his options.

Re-signed

Mitch Brown (2022), Max Gawn (2025), James Jordon (2023), Jake Lever (2024), Tom McDonald (2024), Alex Neal-Bullen (2023), Clayton Oliver (2023), Christian Salem (2026), Joel Smith (2022), Sam Weideman (2023)

Draft Picks

33, 42, 54

North Melbourne

Targets

Are set to lure Tigers tall Callum Coleman-Jones in a trade with the Tigers, who could come under the tutelage of cut Crow Tom Lynch as he is set to join the Kangaroos in a coaching capacity and could explore an option to play.

Departures

Will lose Robbie Tarrant to the Tigers as the veteran defender exercises his free agency right. Trent Dumont is tipped to depart as his future, along with Shaun Atley and Tom Campbell, remains unclear.

Re-signed

Aiden Bonar (2023), Charlie Comben (2023), Luke Davies-Uniacke (2023), Jacob Edwards (2023), Eddie Ford (2024), Kyron Hayden (2022), Nick Larkey (2024), Jack Mahony (2023), Luke McDonald (2026), Matthew McGuinness (2022), Ben McKay (2023), Flynn Perez (2022), Will Phillips (2024), Phoenix Spicer (2023), Tarryn Thomas (2022), Josh Walker (2022), Patrick Walker (2022), Jack Ziebell (2022), Aaron Hall (2022)

Draft Picks

1, 20, 38, 69

Port Adelaide

Targets

Have expressed some level of interest in Hawks high-flyer Tim O'Brien, who is from SA and is yet to ink a new deal for 2022, while contracted Giants spearhead Jeremy Finlayson has reportedly held a medical at Alberton. Have missed out on landing Jordan Dawson, who will join the Crows this off-season, while another South Australian product in Luke Dunstan could be an option for Ken Hinkley.

Departures

Ruckman Peter Ladhams has been granted permission to assess his options, with a number of rivals set to show interest in the Port tall. Have cut ties with Hamish Hartlett, who is hoping to land a lifeline and has spoken with the Suns. Port Adelaide football boss Chris Davies stated that Tom Clurey will remain at the club despite rival interest. Defender Jarrod Lienert's future is up in the air with no new deal landed.

Re-signed

Riley Bonner (2023), Martin Frederick (2022), Robbie Gray (2022), Sam Hayes (2023), Tom Jonas (2023)

Draft Picks

16, 60, 70, 71

Richmond

Targets

Will gain Robbie Tarrant via free agency in what will be a great signing for Damien Hardwick. What that means for their interest in Daniel Talia remains a key question, with a move for the Delisted Adelaide defender now unlikely. Are looking to move further up the draft order and could do so as they carry four picks in the top 28 selections.

Departures

Will lose key tall duo Callum Coleman-Jones and Mabior Chol to the Kangaroos and Suns respectively. Veteran Josh Caddy is understood to be weighing up his future as he falls out of favour at Punt Road. Delisted midfielder Patrick Naish is hoping to land an AFL lifeline.

Re-signed

Noah Balta (2023), Shai Bolton (2023), Jason Castagna (2023), Thomson Dow (2023), Dylan Grimes (2023), Rhyan Mansell (2023), Kamdyn McIntosh (2023), Dion Prestia (2024), Daniel Rioli (2022), Ivan Soldo (2024), Nick Vlastuin (2026)

Draft Picks

7, 15, 26, 28, 40, 44

St Kilda

Targets

Looked to have missed on luring tall Cat Nathan Kreuger, who is likely to join Collingwood should he leave Geelong, while Port Adelaide defender Tom Clurey is set to remain at Alberton. Clurey's teammate in Peter Ladhams would be an ideal fit for the Saints as they look to find a successor to Paddy Ryder for the future. Could also look to stock picks for next season as they hope to lure Ben King from the Suns.

Departures

Will part ways with Luke Dunstan despite his strong 2021 campaign, while hard-nosed utility Ben Long is reportedly gaining interest from multiple clubs including the Bombers. Seb Ross is yet to sign a new deal with the club as we hit the eve of the free agency period. Jack Lonie and Dean Kent are reportedly having to wait on knowing where their future lies until after the exchange period.

Re-signed

Jack Billings (2025), Dan Butler (2022), Hunter Clark (2023), Nicholas Coffield (2023), Leo Connolly (2023), Jarryn Geary (2022), Max King (2026), Tim Membrey (2024), Paddy Ryder (2022), Cooper Sharman (2023), Jack Sinclair (2024), Callum Wilkie (2023), Mason Wood (2022)

Draft Picks

9, 46, 64

Sydney

Targets 

A quieter off-season for the Swans given their salary cap situation, however could look to re-ignite their interest in Power ruckman Peter Ladhams, who has been granted permission to assess his options.

Departures

Will lose midfield duo Jordan Dawson and George Hewett to the Crows and Blues respectively, with Hewett exercising his free agency options to land at Princes Park. Were able to retain Dylan Stephens and Hayden McLean to new deals following growing interest from rival clubs.

Re-signed

Joel Amartey (2023), Nick Blakey (2024), Braeden Campbell (2025), Robbie Fox (2022), Will Gould (2022), Josh P. Kennedy (2022), Tom McCartin (2023), Hayden McLean (2023), Colin O'Riordan (2022), Luke Parker (2025), James Rowbottom (2024), Marc Sheather (2023), Callum Sinclair (2022), Dylan Stephens (2023), Chad Warner (2023)

Draft Picks

12, 31, 67

West Coast

Targets

Will work with the Blues to trade in wantaway midfielder Sam Petrevski-Seton, who is looking to return to his home state of Western Australia. Salary pressure is likely to see the Eagles place attention to re-signing veteran pair Shannon Hurn and Josh Kennedy.

Departures

Jarrod Brander is set to move on from the Eagles and is gaining interest from the east coast, with the Blues one club linked to the winger. Kennedy's future remains up in the air, however it is unlikely to see him not in the blue and gold in 2022.

Re-signed

Oscar Allen (2025), Liam Duggan (2024), Callum Jamieson (2022), Jackson Nelson (2022), Jack Redden (2022), Josh Rotham (2024), Liam Ryan (2024), Dom Sheed (2025), Brad Sheppard (2023), Zane Trew (2022)

Draft Picks

10, 29, 35, 49, 65

Western Bulldogs

Targets

May be keen to bolster their ruck stocks in preparation to aid life after Stefan Martin, with Power tall Peter Ladhams reportedly of interest to the Bulldogs. Will also look to piece together enough draft points to land Sam Darcy as a father-son selection at the top of this year's draft.

Departures

Will lose Patrick Lipinski, who has requested a trade to Collingwood for this off-season despite being tabled a deal by the Dogs. Ruckman Jordon Sweet is understood to be gaining interest from rivals, while Mitch Wallis will weigh up his future despite being tabled a two-year deal to remain at Whitten Oval.

Re-signed

Marcus Bontempelli (2025), Louis Butler (2022), Taylor Duryea (2022), Riley Garcia (2022), Ryan Gardner (2023), Tom Liberatore (2023), Lachlan McNeil (2023), Ed Richards (2023), Anthony Scott (2023), Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (2024), Laitham Vandermeer (2023), Cody Weightman (2023), Bailey Williams (2023)

Draft Picks

Key Dates and Rulings

• A club may exchange with another club or clubs any combination of Primary List player(s), Rookie List player(s), National Draft Selection(s) and Future National Draft Selection(s)
• Any rookie list player involved in any trade must be put on the senior list of the club to which he is traded;
• A club cannot on-trade a player received in any exchange until the following year.
• A club may exchange a draft selection it has received from another club, provided that the selection is not traded directly back to that club.
• Where the exchange of a player(s) and National Draft selection(s) involves more than two clubs, it is not a requirement that each club involved in the transaction make an exchange between each other.
• Any National Draft selection received in an exchange does not need to be exercised.

Key player movement dates:

• Monday 6 September: Draft Nominations Open
• Friday 1 October: Free Agency opens
• Monday 4 October:  2021 Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period opens
• Friday 8 October: Unrestricted Free Agency closes / Restricted Free Agency bidding closes
• Monday 11 October: Restricted Free Agency matching closes
• Wednesday 13 October: 2021 Continental Tyres Trade Period closes
• October/November: Selection Only Trade Period
• Wednesday 17 November: 2021 NAB AFL Draft Nominations Close
• Wednesday 24 November: 2021 NAB AFL Draft Round 1
• Thursday 25 November: Mid-Draft Trade Period
• Thursday 25 November: 2021 NAB AFL Draft Round 2 onwards
• Friday 26 November: Pre-Season & Rookie Draft