2024 AFL Mid-Season Draft: Retired ruck gives verdict on potential return amidst multiple interest 

Former Essendon ruckman Andrew Phillips has debunked reports of a possible comeback via the upcoming AFL Mid-Season Draft. The 32-year-old was rumored to be on the radar of multiple clubs ahead of the mid-season draft but has ruled out a potential return to the league.

Phillips retired from footy at the end of the 2023 season after 12 years in the AFL. He was drafted by Greater Western Sydney with pick No. 4 in the 2011 rookie draft. After four years with the Giants, he was traded to Carlton where he played another four seasons. In 2020, Phillips joined Essendon, featuring 41 times for the Bombers before calling it quits in 2023.

During the week, AFL.com.au reported that multiple clubs in need of a ruck were eyeing Phillips ahead of the Mid-Season Draft. However, AFL journalist Riley Beveridge disclosed that the AFL would not permit the 32-year-old an exemption to be picked.

Players who hung up their boots last term are not eligible to be drafted through the Mid-Season Draft, unless in rare cases adjudged by the league. However, amidst reports of clubs' interest in him, Phillips said he has no aspiration to return to the top-flight.

Recently, Phillips spoke to SEN and revealed he was unaware of the interest from clubs. He said (via Zero Hanger):

"It's never crossed my mind, it's never been something that's come across my table.

"I'm not sure who he's spoken to or what clubs are interested. My phone hasn't been calling or no mail has been popped in my letterbox or anything.

"I'm happy and I retired. I must be," Phillips added.

The 201cm ruckman has been back in his home state of Tasmania since retirement, joining his junior club Lauderdale Football Club in the Tasmanian State League.

When will the 2024 AFL Mid-season take place?

The 2024 AFL Mid-Season D1raft is scheduled for Wednesday, May 29, three days after the end of Round 11 matches. During this draft, clubs with an open list spot can add extra players to their list.

The draft order for the AFL Mid-Season Draft will be the reverse of the league table order as of the end of Round 11, and only clubs with open list spots will have a spot in the order.

Fremantle, Gold Coast, Collingwood, Melbourne, and Adelaide are clubs with open spots currently. Notable Mid-Season Draft prospects include Jack Hutchinson (Collingwood VFL), Jacob Blight (Peel Thunder), Ben Hopkins (Dandenong Stingrays), and Will McLachlan (Geelong Falcons).