Pies 'not giving up' on free agent, Hawks hunt big three, Blues' pick chase
The AFL's Head of Football Performance and List Management, Justin Reid, joins Gettable to unpack the seismic shifts reshaping the league's player market — from Tasmania's entry to the draft bidding overhaul. Reid reveals that the AFL has intentionally tightened the top-five draft pick compensation rules to prevent clubs from gaming the system, while also confirming that Tasmania's expansion will not disrupt this year’s trade period. Despite pressure from clubs, mid-season trading remains shelved for now, with Reid emphasizing clarity over complexity. He also drops a bombshell: clubs now have real-time access to salary cap data, meaning no more guessing games when matching free agent offers. The episode dives into the high-stakes chase for elite free agents like Zach Butters and Bailey Humphrey, with Hawthorn's 'big three' ambition and Collingwood's veteran-heavy strategy under intense scrutiny. But the real revelation? The AFL is already planning for 2030 — not just the next trade period, but the entire future of player movement, list building, and even the role of technology in contract transparency.
The AFL has locked in new draft bidding rules to prevent clubs from manipulating the top-five compensation pick system.
Mid-season trading is shelved for now, but clubs can still match free agent offers using real-time salary cap data.
Tasmania's expansion will not affect this year’s trade period, but clubs will face draft penalties for three years.
Clubs now have live access to salary cap information, making it impossible to hide financial flexibility.
The AFL is already planning for 2030, with Tasmania’s entry as the first major milestone in a long-term list evolution.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Sponsor: Sportsbet AFL Same Game Multi
Promotion for Sportsbet's same game multi betting product with a sample combo involving Smith, Gorn, and Cameron.
Pies' Mid-Season Report Card: Veteran Strategy vs. Draft Future
“Getting the support around Nick Dacos has to be your number one, two and three priorities.”
Carlton’s Cripps Dilemma: Trade or Stay?
Debate over whether Carlton should trade Patrick Cripps to secure top draft picks, despite his strong form and remaining contract.
Fremantle’s List Stability: No Need to Shop
Fremantle’s complete list and strong retention strategy mean they’re not actively seeking new players, even with cap room.
Hawthorn’s Big Three Chase: Merritt & Humphrey
“They don't want one of them, they want both. And this is the challenge.”
“What does 2030 look like, knowing that the next four years with the new draft bidding rules in Tasmania are locked away?”
“So answer your question if someone is to match that offer, then be prepared to pay that money as you see it. year for year, dollar for dollar.”
“They don't want one of them, they want both. And this is the challenge.”
Hosts
Guest
Collingwood
other
Tasmania
other
Justin Reid
person
Hawthorn
other
Carlton
other
Fremantle
other
Bailey Humphrey
other
Patrick Cripps
other
Zach Butters
other
Essendon
other
Big free agent 'expected to go', Crow's new suitor, will Bombers get AFL help?
28m • 6/3/2026
Should a complainant's counselling records be used in a sexual assault trial?
29m • 6/16/2026
503: Thanks DangeRuss! A tribute to Russell Wilson
2h 14m • 6/16/2026
Star 'good as gone', Logan Morris' manager on rival links, could Dons 'get nasty'?
28m • 6/17/2026
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime