IT'S THE question that faces every club at this time of year - stick with their veteran players, or move on to the next generation ready to step up. Our writers run the rule over the over-30s at your club - and whether they should stay or go at the end of 2018.

The Crows have an experienced core of players in the 26-30 year age bracket. They are targeting a premiership in the next few years after re-signing star midfielder Rory Sloane, and can afford to keep a few older heads on their list.

Eddie Betts

The couple of hamstring injuries he's had this season are a concern, but Betts, who turns 32 in November, can still change a game. STAY

Richard Douglas

The reliable midfielder/forward earned himself a one-year contract extension. Turns 32 in February next year. STAY

Sam Gibson

Hamstring issues have restricted the former North Melbourne midfielder, who turns 33 next season, to five senior games, but has returned to good form in the SANFL. Will be a tough call. GO

Sam Jacobs

The club's premier ruckman has battled on gamely despite a back injury this season. Gives a contest every week and will continue that next season at age 31. STAY

David Mackay

Is the fall guy from Crows supporters every time the team doesn't perform, but plays an important role with his speed and defensive work. Turns 31 next year. STAY – Lee Gaskin

Such a young list and only two players over 30. Most of the Lions' tougher list decisions are on their mid-tier players with six to eight years of experience. Not much to decide here.

Stefan Martin

Seemingly getting better with age, Martin has another year to run on his contract and is showing no signs of slowing down. STAY

Luke Hodge

Leadership has been everything the club hoped for and has easily earned his spot with an excellent season on-field. Another year on his deal and looks good to go again. STAY – Michael Whiting

Stefan Martin turns 32 this November, but is as important to the Lions as ever. Picture: AFL Photos





Carlton will be wary of shedding too much experience from its list, in the knowledge that it has a young and developing squad that needs guidance. A clear void in terms of mature-aged talent could have the Blues erring on the side of caution when they sit down to decide the future of the club's older heads.

Marc Murphy

Recently signed a two-year contract extension, so he's a lock to stay. He'll play a pivotal role in a leadership position, regardless of whether he retains the captaincy or not. STAY

Sam Rowe

Started the season well, but he's found the going tough recently. If everything goes to plan, he'll play his 100th game in round 23. Expect a decision on his future to come at the end of the season, with the next month crucial to his future. He'll be 31 by year's end. STAY

Alex Silvagni

Elevated into Carlton's leadership group before the season, but won't play a game this year due to injury. He ruptured his Achilles in June, which could make it difficult for him to go around again next year. He turns 31 in September. GO

Kade Simpson

He'll be in the frame for Carlton's best and fairest. He might be 35 next year, but he's still fit and ultra-consistent. The Blues will want him around, so he's likely to pen another one-year extension at season's end. STAY

Dale Thomas

His disposal has let him down occasionally, but he's arguably enjoyed his best season at the club in 2018. He's out of contract, but expect him to re-sign for one more. STAY - Riley Beveridge

Captain Scott Pendlebury appears the only 30-plus Pie certain to play on next season for the simple reason that the others have had injury issues that could affect the thinking of both player and club. However, a strong case can be mounted to retain all five.

Lynden Dunn

The Demon discard, 31, has been terrific in his two seasons with the Pies and, despite recently undergoing a knee reconstruction, remains highly valued for his defensive abilities and leadership. STAY

Tyson Goldsack

The 31-year-old utility and consummate team man had a knee reconstruction in March but could make a stunning late-season return. STAY

Scott Pendlebury

The Pies' skipper – perhaps the club's best player since Peter Daicos – still has plenty left in the tank. A young 30. STAY

Travis Varcoe

The only concern is the ex-Cat's durability given his recent run of injuries, but the 30-year-old's class, speed and flexibility make him a required player. STAY

Daniel Wells

Though he hasn't shed the injury-prone tag, the 33-year-old former Roo still has the final year of his lucrative contract to run and both parties will want to make a success of the deal. STAY - Ben Collins

Travis Varcoe is a must for the Pies if his body plays ball. Picture: AFL Photos





The Bombers have a relatively young list, but saw themselves as a top-four contender this season. It hasn't played out that way so it will be interesting to see if there's a tweak in their list management philosophy come the end of the year. They lost plenty of experience at the end of last season, so that may be a factor in whether they decide to go down that path again with their out-of-contract senior players.

Mark Baguley

It has been a different season for Baguley, who has moved from a permanent role in the backline to being a pressure small forward. Baguley has kicked 12 goals for the season and helped trap the ball inside-50. STAY

Brendon Goddard

Goddard is Essendon's oldest and most experienced player and has been a stellar contributor for the Bombers since joining the club for season 2013. He is 33 and out of contract and he could leave the game knowing he is still performing at a high level. GO

Matthew Leuenberger

The ruckman has played only one game at senior level this year and is behind Tom Bellchambers in the club's pecking order. His three-year deal at the Bombers is up but his future could depend on whether they bring in another big man during the off-season. GO - Callum Twomey

The Dockers have turned over 22 players in the past two off-seasons and are set for more upheaval, however they need to retain some experience in the squad to help bring the younger crop through and teach them AFL habits.

Hayden Ballantyne

The uncontracted goalsneak has struggled to stay on the park consistently the past two years but Ross Lyon values his forward line leadership. The toughest call of the veterans. GO

Michael Johnson

Has made way for youth this season and is helping guide the next generation at Peel. Arguably the club's greatest indigenous player, he'll depart at season's end and should get a farewell game. GO

David Mundy

Nearly 33, the former skipper remains integral with his ability to play at a high level in midfield and organise the forward line. Going around again is a no-brainer. STAY

Danyle Pearce

Has made just three senior appearances and will exit the club at the end of 2018 after a distinguished 258-game career. Could receive a farewell game. GO

Aaron Sandilands

Lyon has already said Sandilands' form this season warrants him going around one more time and if the 35-year-old can live with not playing every week he should play on. STAY

Lee Spurr

Is the forgotten man at Freo after missing the entire season with knee problems in the final year of his contract. Hard to see a role for him in a new-look backline. GO - Travis King

Michael Johnson will likely get a farewell game before season's end. Pcture: AFL Photos





The Cats haven't been afraid to move on ageing stars in recent times, but with Gary Ablett approaching most likely his last season in 2019, their time is now. With 14 youngsters blooded in the past two seasons, the Cats will be able to hold on to more players over 30.

Gary Ablett

Will be 35 early next year in his 18th AFL season. After doing the bulk of the 2018 pre-season, expect his 2019 preparation to be tinkered after two hamstring injuries. STAY

Stewart Crameri

Playing on a base wage, the forward (who turns 30 in August) has done enough to earn a one-year extension. After playing rounds 7-10, the former Dog and Bomber could be a finals smokey. STAY

Tom Hawkins

Signed until the end of 2020, the year he turns 32, the power forward is in his best patch of form for the season after a slow start. STAY

Joel Selwood

Not going anywhere. Signed a contract extension late last year until the end of 2021, which will take him through until the age of 33. STAY

Harry Taylor

Contracted for next season, has developed more soreness in his foot since his 32nd birthday last month while being edged out of the defence. The safety net of a contract saves a tough decision at season's end. STAY- Mitch Cleary

With a distinct lack of leadership at the club and a rebuild in process, there's a few tough decisions to be made on four out-of-contract players aged 30 or older. Some experience is much needed, but not at the expense of developing the Suns' future.

Jarrod Harbrow

One of the Suns' most consistent in 2018. A foundation player that would again be prominent in best and fairest voting. A no-brainer. STAY

Matt Rosa

His third year at the club has been dogged by hamstring problems. Played just five games and despite being highly regarded, might be coming towards the end. GO

Michael Rischitelli

At 32, has been forced to learn a new position in defence and missed just one game. Great leader and shining example to the young players. Tough decision. STAY

Michael Barlow

A year he'd rather forget. Coming off a broken leg in 2017, has played just one game, was dropped and then copped a broken jaw in the NEAFL. GO – Michael Whiting

Matt Rosa's injuries could see the ex-Eagle nearing the end. Picture: AFL Photos





The Giants recruited for their needs last year with a mixture of young and mature-age talent, and they're likely to go that way again in 2018. The club has just three veteran players on its list and they all have a role next year.

Brett Deledio

His injury worries returned after a run of outstanding form early in the season, but he'll definitely see out his contract next year. STAY

Ryan Griffen

Solid without being spectacular in a new role up forward, the former Bulldog is out of contract this year but should get one more season. STAY

Heath Shaw

The defender hasn't had his best season but still has a vital role to play in 2019, and he has one year on his current deal, with his leadership on and off the field important. STAY - Adam Curley

The Hawks will be a fascinating watch come the end of the season. Coach Alastair Clarkson wasn't afraid to move on Jordan Lewis, Sam Mitchell and Luke Hodge when they each had some footy left in them, so watch this space when it comes to the likes of Shaun Burgoyne, Grant Birchall and especially skipper Jarryd Roughead.

Grant Birchall

Hasn't played at all this year because of knee injuries, but is slated for a late return. If he breaks down again, it might be curtains. STAY

Shaun Burgoyne

Two hamstring injuries this year after none in his 17 years before that puts his future into question. But he still offers so much when up and running that 2019 is likely. STAY

Ricky Henderson

A good get for the Hawks as a delisted free agent at the start of last year and he has been serviceable. But he'd be holding back one of the kids next year. GO

Paul Puopolo

Tough call this one. A warrior in three premiership teams but probably starting out on the downwards slope. He and Cyril Rioli would leave a void but the Hawks need to regenerate. GO

Jarryd Roughead

His best is great, as we saw against the Bulldogs less than two weeks ago. But he also has his quiet days such as against the Lions on the weekend. But the feeling is there is enough left in the tank for one more year. STAY – Ashley Browne

The Hawks might have to make a tough call on Paul Puopolo. Picture: AFL Photos





Melbourne has built its list to contend for a premiership over the next few years and the core group of its players are starting to approach a suitable age demographic. The Demons have just four players over the age of 30 on their list this season, with two of their veterans no longer walk-up starts in the side.

Nathan Jones

The co-captain has had another highly productive season, averaging 25.7 disposals per game. With the emergence of Clayton Oliver and Angus Brayshaw, Jones, 30, has not played as much on the inside this season and used more on the wing and off half-back. Contracted until the end of 2019. STAY

Jordan Lewis

Set to play his 300th AFL match next week, Lewis has played every game so far this season. The four-time premiership player has played almost exclusively in defence where his form has been up and down. The 32-year-old is contracted until the end of 2019. STAY

Cameron Pedersen

The journeyman has managed just three games this season, with Melbourne preferring Jesse Hogan and Tom McDonald as its key forward targets. Pedersen, 31, could be moved on at the end of the year, but a patch of consistent form in the VFL may see him retained. GO

Bernie Vince

The veteran defender was dropped after round 14, but regained his place in the side for last Saturday's game against the Western Bulldogs. Vince, 32, is starting to show signs that he is slowing down and is likely to retire or be moved on at the end of the season. GO - Ben Guthrie





The Kangaroos were not afraid to make big calls on their older players the past two off-seasons and have two more to come. Scott Thompson and Jarrad Waite are playing just about as well as ever, but they are out of contract, and younger options such as Ben McKay, Sam Durdin and Nick Larkey are desperate for their shot.

Todd Goldstein

The 2015 All Australian ruckman is back playing somewhere near his best football in recent weeks. Braydon Preuss appears ready to play regular AFL football, but Goldstein is contracted for 2019. STAY

Shaun Higgins

Contracted for two more years after this one and in career-best, maybe even Brownlow Medal-winning form. An absolute jet who has plenty of good football ahead of him. STAY

Scott Thompson

The ultimate professional has transformed himself into a hybrid defender who complements Robbie Tarrant perfectly. There will be offers elsewhere if North doesn't keep him. STAY

Jarrad Waite

Wound back the clock with a magnificent start to the season at age 35, but the calf problem that has sidelined him since round 10 is a timely reminder of his frailty. GO – Marc McGowan

Jarrad Waite's quality isn't in question, but his durability is. Picture: AFL Photos





The Power have quite an experienced list, which is ideal for a club that is contending for a premiership. Of their five over-30s, only Lindsay Thomas and Justin Westhoff are uncontracted.

Travis Boak

The Power skipper is playing more across half-forward than in the midfield, but still plays an important role. Turns 30 in August. STAY

Robbie Gray

This is an easy one. Stay. Stay as long as the star forward/midfielder's body will let him. Gray, who turns 31 in March next year, can win a game off his own boot. STAY

Paddy Ryder

Troubled by an Achilles injury, but it shouldn't prevent the Power ruckman from playing on next year. Turns 31 in March and is contracted for 2019. STAY

Lindsay Thomas

The former North Melbourne goalsneak has impressed with his forward pressure. Thomas, who turns 31 in February, is a good chance to be retained, but it's no certainty. STAY

Justin Westhoff

The swingman is having an outstanding season playing on a wing, up forward and pinch-hitting in the ruck. It's a formality for Westhoff, who turns 32 in October, to sign a one-year extension. STAY – Lee Gaskin

The Tigers are in the premiership window and aren't carrying too many older players, so there's no pressing need to move anyone on. The more pressing factor for how the list looks next season is the potential salary cap squeeze if they recruit Gold Coast star Tom Lynch.

Shaun Grigg

At 30, the midfielder is still an important part of Richmond's side. He's in the last year of his contract and will probably be waiting for a new offer until the free agency situation plays out. STAY

Shaun Hampson

An ongoing back injury meant the 30-year-old ruckman retired in June. His contract was due to expire at season's end. GO

Bachar Houli

Returned from a groin injury at the weekend and negotiations on a new deal will wait until he strings some games together. Similar to Grigg, the 30-year-old is definitely good enough to go on. STAY – Dinny Navaratnam

Bachar Houli continues to play an important role for the Tigers. Picture: AFL Photos





The list has been shown up as not having enough A-graders, so moves need to be made in the off-season to bring in more elite talent. On the other hand, losing Nick Riewoldt and Leigh Montagna at the end of last year left a large leadership void.

David Armitage

Contracted until the end of 2019, and the 30-year-old has been much improved since returning from a stint in the VFL as he battled hamstring tendinitis. STAY

Jarryn Geary

At 30, Geary is one of the best players at the Saints and is contracted until the end of 2019, so the skipper isn't going anywhere. STAY

Sam Gilbert

The 31-year-old is maligned but still in the best 22, with Bailey Rice and Brandon White yet to cement a spot in the senior side. Furthermore, Gilbert doesn't seem to have lost any of his speed. STAY - Dinny Navaratnam

The Swans put their faith in youth last year, but they might look to lure an out of contract star to the club in 2018. Some big calls might need to be made on some club greats, and it looms as a tough period for the list management team.

Lance Franklin

The superstar will turn 32 before the start of next season, but is still the most dangerous forward in the game and has lost none of his weapons. STAY

Heath Grundy

Just turned 32 and out of contract, the key defender is playing well enough to go again, but his form for the rest of the season, and the club's success in landing an established player post-season, is likely to decide his future. STAY

Kieren Jack

Has played a role again up forward but has battled his body again and is under increasing pressure from younger teammates to keep his spot. Contracted next year, but retirement could be an option if he's not in John Longmire's plans. GO

Josh Kennedy

The skipper hasn't been his dominant self around the footy at times this year, but he's still the team's barometer and is contracted until the end of 2020. STAY

Jarrad McVeigh

Showed some impressive form before suffering a broken collarbone in round 16. His leadership is crucial, and he still sets the standards around the club. Deserves another one-year deal. STAY

Nick Smith

An unrestricted free agent at season's end, the lockdown small defender is still one of the best in the competition and will be a Swan for the rest of his career. STAY - Adam Curley

The Eagles' list was the oldest in the League last year but is nicely balanced with plenty of kids coming through while the experienced campaigners are pulling their weight. Eric Mackenzie seems like he will hang up the boots but West Coast is positioned to be a contender in coming years.

Shannon Hurn

In the form of his life and should be named All Australian captain. Contracted for next year and has a fair bit left in the tank yet. STAY

Josh Kennedy

When he is on the park, Kennedy is still one of the most bankable forwards in the game. Has battled leg issues but is contracted for next year and has a couple more left in him at least. STAY

Mark LeCras

Looked shot last year due to hip problems but has bounced back in a big way with 24 goals in 14 games. Still dangerous and has stepped up his leadership. Turning 32 but could go on again. STAY

Eric Mackenzie

The Eagles could have used the 2014 club champion's experience to fall back on in finals but he managed only one game at East Perth due to feet issues. Out of contract and likely to retire three games short of life membership. GO – Travis King

Mark LeCras has stopped his slide with a solid 2018 campaign. Picture: AFL Photos





With one of the youngest and most inexperienced lists in the AFL, it's unlikely the Dogs will show the door to any of their veterans. However, injuries may force the hand of Liam Picken and Tory Dickson.

Dale Morris

Injury-plagued in recent seasons, the versatile defender has only succumbed to contact concerns and that gives the 35-year-old and Luke Beveridge the confidence he can play on into a 16th AFL season. STAY

Liam Picken

A serious concussion in the pre-season has left the 31-year-old indefinitely sidelined. Contracted for next season, so expected to play on. STAY

Tory Dickson

Soft-tissue injuries have allowed the goalsneak to play just 14 games since 2016. With such a young list at Whitten Oval, the 30-year-old should get at least another season. STAY - Ryan Davidson