Matt Jones

Recruited as a mature-age prospect from the Box Hill Hawks, Matt Jones was selected by Melbourne with pick 52 in the 2012 National Draft to add immediate depth to a list lacking experienced bodies. He made an instant impact at selection, playing every game in his debut season and finishing fourth in the best and fairest during a bleak period for the Demons. Operating primarily as an outside midfielder and wingman, Jones was known for his elite endurance and ability to find space, although his disposal efficiency by foot often frustrated supporters. He remained a regular contributor under Paul Roos as the club stabilised, but eventually found himself squeezed out of the side as the team's talent profile rose. Jones was delisted at the end of the 2016 season, remembered as a hardworking servant who maximised his opportunity during a challenging rebuild.