The 2025 Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period and Free Agency windows are set to open soon, offering clubs the opportunity to reshape their rosters ahead of the upcoming season. This period is crucial for all 18 clubs as they look to enhance their playing lists through strategic player trades and draft pick exchanges.
The Trade Period, a 10-day window, follows the AFL Grand Final and precedes the Telstra AFL Draft. It allows clubs to negotiate player and draft pick exchanges in a formal setting. This year, the Free Agency period opens on October 3 and closes on October 10, while the Trade Period runs from October 6 to October 15.
Understanding the Trade Period
The Trade Period is a dynamic phase where clubs can trade players and draft picks. This year, a significant rule change allows clubs to trade picks up to two years in advance, meaning selections for the 2025, 2026, and 2027 drafts can be exchanged.
Typically, trades involve two clubs, but multi-club exchanges are also possible. The AFL oversees these trades to ensure fairness, although the clubs themselves negotiate the terms.
Key Dates and Broadcast Details
The Free Agency period kicks off on October 3 at 9am AEST and concludes on October 10 at 5pm AEDT. The Trade Period starts on October 6 at 9am AEDT and ends on October 15 at 7:30pm AEDT. Fans can stay updated with all player movement news through the Continental Tyres AFL Trade Radio, broadcasting daily from 7am to 6pm AEDT during these periods.
Draft Selections and the Draft Value Index
Draft selections are initially allocated in reverse order of the season’s finishing ladder. For example, Richmond, finishing 18th in 2025, holds the first draft pick. However, with the ability to trade future picks, the order can vary significantly.
The Draft Value Index (DVI) assigns a points value to each pick, with pick No.1 worth 3000 points. This system helps ensure fair trades, especially for father-son or Academy players.
In 2025, the DVI system will be revamped to assign fewer points to lower picks, encouraging clubs to pay a fair price for players. This change aims to increase the equity of draft pick exchanges.
Free Agency Explained
Free Agency provides players with another route to change clubs. There are two types: restricted and unrestricted. Unrestricted free agents, having served eight years at one club, can move freely. Restricted free agents, however, may require a trade if their current club matches an offer from another club.
The AFL compensates clubs losing free agents through a formula considering the player’s new contract and age, allocating draft picks accordingly.
Player Consent and Salary Dumps
Clubs can only trade players with their consent if they are under contract. Players have the right to veto trades they disagree with. Additionally, clubs close to the salary cap may engage in ‘salary dumps,’ attaching a draft pick to a player’s contract to incentivize other clubs to take on the player’s salary.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming AFL Trade Period and Free Agency windows are pivotal for clubs looking to bolster their rosters. With changes in trade rules and the Draft Value Index, clubs must navigate these periods strategically to maximize their gains.
As the AFL landscape continues to evolve, these periods offer a glimpse into the future strategies and competitiveness of each club. The decisions made during these windows could significantly impact the 2025 season and beyond.
