A number of high-profile players have been sent delisting from the 2023 AFL season, creating speculation surrounding their futures in the league. One of those players is Elijah Hollands, who was surprisingly waived despite carrying a contract that extended through 2026. George has a very bright future to look forward to with Geelong. The team intends to ‘re-rookie’ him following his delisting. AFL landscape is changing, with clubs looking to remake rosters in anticipation of next season.
The budding midfield general, Dylan Shiel was front-page news in waves simply by leaving the Bombers after seven seasons. At 32 years old, Shiel has become a very durable player, having only missed 39 games in his 10-year career. Injuries soured his contributions, forcing him to miss all but 10 games the last two years. Aside from these disappointments, Cameron had an excellent 2023, playing all 16 games leading up to the grand final.
Elijah Hollands and Future Prospects
Elijah Hollands’ sudden delisting surprised many, considering he was still under contract until 2026. Most figured the young player, who recently turned 21, would be a central figure for his club’s long-term plans. His greatness is still to be realized. As disappointing as this setback seems, his young age provides ample opportunity for him to find a new path, be it in the league or outside of it.
His departure emphasizes the difficult choices teams must make during the offseason when they’re deciding how to build their rosters. With many teams looking to rebuild or refine their lineups, even promising young players can find themselves on the chopping block. The next few months will determine Hollands’ fate. He just needs to play well enough to get other clubs to come sniffing around who can see his potential.
Although it’s discouraging to be delisted, most players have come back from the delist to enjoy long, successful careers in the league. Hollands’ grit and ability will undoubtedly stand him in good stead as he chases a new beginning in the AFL.
Veteran Players Seeking New Opportunities
Dylan Shiel’s time with Essendon is over in a surprising twist after a fantastic but tumultuous experience. The veteran midfielder has been an impact player in the league covering over 185 games. Injuries cut short his performance in recent years, leaving him with only 10 appearances in the past two seasons. Importantly for Hamlin-Uele, he experienced his most successful and healthiest year to date in 2023, featuring across 16 games – including a run to the grand final.
As Shiel approaches his 33rd birthday at the start of the next season, he remains keen to continue his playing career. His experience and skills could be valuable assets to teams looking for seasoned players who can provide leadership and performance on the field. The next few months will be telling for Shiel. He will be an asset to any other team he pursues opportunities with, as they can take advantage of his veteran experience.
And this case is the same for Todd Goldstein. The seasoned ruckman has made it clear he wants to continue his career. At 35 years of age, Goldstein is working through a different stage of life now that his stint with Essendon has come to a close. Though he is old for a prospect, he reportedly still received strong early interest from other clubs. His incredible age-defying time in the sport is a testament to his discipline and consistent effort to stay competitive.
Young Talent Facing Uncertainty
In addition to these grizzled veterans, younger talents like George Stevens are figuring out how to maneuver the quandary of AFL roster changes. Geelong sent Stevens packing, and many outside the club were shocked. The club promised him they would ‘re-rookie’ him, signifying their belief in his talent even while he suffered this unfortunate setback. This decision shows Geelong’s maturity in being able to identify what young talent they need to nurture and develop while still remaining competitive in future seasons.
The other American player in doubt is 28-year-old midfielder Weston McKennie. He was recently dropped by Collingwood, despite playing in both this year’s finals. This unusual move begs questions about how clubs assess players’ impact on the pitch compared to their overall compatibility in the team-building context. Players of this ilk have to be versatile and always be looking for ways to play their way back into a job in the league.
On that other front, a North Melbourne kid was shown the door, having run up – as an afterthought – 50 games in five seasons at Arden St. He dealt with considerable adversity during his professional career, including one season cut short by glandular fever. Currently, he is looking for new opportunities and… The characteristics of professional sports require players to be resilient and adaptable throughout every phase of their careers.
