Today we explore the AFL players you might regret losing in the diamond player exchanges that GameDay Squad has introduced as a new feature on the GDS Discord platform. I’ll be focusing on diamond cards, as they will hold more value at the start of the season if these players begin to perform.
For New Coaches
If you’re new or not yet on Discord, we suggest checking it out—it’s a great place to get free packs, The new feature allows you to exchange active diamond players for a 3-player unique pack. You can exchange other types of players as well.
Sign up for GameDay Squad using the code 'BOBAFL' and score 3 free packs to kickstart your fantasy squad
This feature is critical because the AFL players you might regret losing have historically had significant impacts in the market, especially underperforming players who get a role change and become GDS superstars.
For example, take Tristan Xerri: before his breakout 128 GDS average in 2025, he had a career AFL fantasy average of just 48 over four seasons. If this feature had been available then, many coaches might have been tempted to exchange him.
Pick of the AFL Player's You Might Regret Losing- That Have Already Been Traded
E. Hollands (Forward): Hollands is poised for a breakout season, with a touted increased midfield role due to injuries to Walsh and the departure of Kennedy. Someone has to step up, and this role change could provide him with more opportunities for disposals, contested possessions, and tackles—all of which boost his fantasy scoring. As a forward in a year when options are scarce, this increases both his score and his GameDay Squad price, particularly for those playing the market.
James Rowbottom (Midfielder): Rowbottom’s high-pressure game, marked by tackles and contested possessions, is set to improve as Sydney relies more on their midfield. With Warner likely gone in 2026, Rowbottom could be a big riser next year. While 2025 might not be his year, he’s one to watch for the future. I beleive he could be one of the significnat AFL player'syou might regret losing
Jack Graham (Forward): Known for his contested game—essentially an inside midfielder played out of position at Richmond—Graham’s fantasy output could soar if West Coast gives him more midfield minutes. As a forward in 2025, his increased involvement could significantly boost his fantasy value.
John Noble (Defender): Noble’s defensive role is likely to expand at Gold Coast, where a more attacking strategy could lead to more disposals and scoring chances. With massive fantasy numbers coming from Gold Coast defenders in 2024, and many of those players now gone, Noble could step up and become a key rebound option.
Arie Schoenmaker (Defender): Schoenmaker is essentially a rookie who hasn’t shown his best in the AFL yet, but his VFL performances highlight his ceiling. With Battle gone, there’s an opportunity for him in St. Kilda’s high-scoring defence. If he secures more game time, he could become a consistent and valuable fantasy asset.
Shannon Neale (Forward): As a young forward, Neale could see improved scoring in 2025 as Geelong transitions from their established twin towers. He’s a potential foil to Cameron and could be pivotal as a backup ruckman, especially against weaker teams.
Max Michalanney (Defender): Michalanney, a young defender with strong intercepting ability, could shine if his role evolves to include more attacking play. He’s already an excellent lockdown defender but has shown the potential for big fantasy numbers.
Kane McAuliffe (Midfielder): McAuliffe, a versatile midfielder, has significant scoring potential if given more attacking opportunities, particularly at Richmond, where there’s a wealth of opportunity. While the excitement is around tthe 2024 AFL Draft to richmond, don’t sleep on the 2023 class, which could show development this year.
Other Players Who Caught My Eye After Being Exchanged
Jhye Clark – Described as the next Selwood, with Geelong developing him slowly.
Tom Powell – Played serious minutes for North Melbourne in 2023.
Patrick Lipinski and Finlay Macrae – One injury in Collingwood’s aging midfield could give them a massive breakout opportunity.
Others who have changed teams or are young with potential to build their scoring:
Harvey Thomas
Thomas Dow
Toby Bedford
Angus Sheldrick
Kai Lohmann
Jack Lukosius
Campbell Chesser
Andrew McGrath
Mac Andrew
Darcy Jones
Harvey Gallagher
Liam Henry
Koltyn Tholstrup
Conclusion:
As we head into the 2025 AFL season, these players are all set to increase their fantasy output. Whether it’s through a more prominent role in the midfield, a stronger presence in defence, or an overall improvement in consistency and game time, these players are poised to make the GDS coaches who exchanged them regret it.
Get involved, and use our code "BOBAFL" at sign up for to jump start your team with some free packs. Drop us a comment below who you think will be the top Defender in 2025 and their average. Head here if you want to know more about Gamedays Squad.
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