The first mid-season draft since 1993 was held after Round 10 of the 2019 AFL season on 27 May.
[2][3] The draft was only open to clubs with inactive players on their list and vacancies available, such as long-term injuries or retirements.
Players recruited during the mid-season draft earned a contract for the remainder of the season, though had the option of negotiating terms for an extension at any period throughout the season.
The selection order for each of these picks is tied to the original club's finishing position in the 2019 season.
[4] Due to poor on-field results and issues with player retention, prior to the draft, the AFL announced a "rescue package" for Gold Coast [172] which included: Clubs were able to promote any player who was listed on their rookie list in 2019 to their 2020 primary playing list prior to the draft.