The $113k Ghost List: Avoiding Basement Rookie Traps
The most dangerous picks in SuperCoach are the $113k players who never debut. We analyze the 2026 'Job Security Index' to find the real cash cows.
In SuperCoach, $113,500 is the most seductive number in the game. It’s the price of hope. But for every Harry Sheezel, there are ten "Ghosts"—players who sit on your bench, earn nothing, and slowly kill your season.
If a player doesn't play, they don't have a breakeven. If they don't have a breakeven, they don't make cash. Here is the 2026 guide to avoiding the $113k traps.
The Job Security Index (JSI)
When scouting basement rookies, we use the Job Security Index. We rank players on a scale of 1-10 based on two factors:
- Club Trajectory: Rebuilding clubs (West Coast, Richmond, North Melbourne) have a higher "rookie tolerance."
- Draft Capital: Top 10 picks are given more "rope" to fail than Category B rookies or late-round fliers.
High JSI ($113k Locks)
- Willem Duursma (WCE): Pick 1, rebuilding club, elite pedigree. He is a JSI 10.
- Zeke Uwland (GC): Pick 2, high-end talent, Suns love playing kids. JSI 9.
Low JSI ($113k Traps)
- The 'Pre-Season Flyer': A pick 50 who had one good quarter in a scratch match. If they are at a top-4 club (Collingwood, Brisbane), their JSI is a 2.
- The 'Injury Replacement': Only playing because a star is out for 2 weeks. Once the star returns, your rookie is a "Ghost."
Why "Bench Depth" is a Myth
Coaches often say, "I'll just put a non-playing $113k player at M8 to save money." This is a fatal error.
Your bench isn't just for emergencies; it's your bank account. A playing rookie who averages 50 will eventually turn into $350k. A non-playing $113k rookie stays $113k forever. By "saving" money upfront, you are actually losing $200k+ in future trade capital.
The $113k Rule of Three
Never start the season with more than three "high-risk" basement rookies. You need at least 5-6 reliable cash cows to ensure your bankroll grows fast enough to keep up with the competition.
If you find yourself staring at a bench full of players with "DNP" next to their names in Round 2, you have already lost the 2026 season.
The Verdict: If they aren't named in the best 22 for Round 1, Fade the Ghost. Pay up for a $150k player with a guaranteed role instead.
Last updated: February 23, 2026
Thursday night rookie intel. Free.
Team announcements, late outs, and the definitive rookie reliability update every Thursday night before lockout.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I always pick $113k rookies for my bench?+
Only if they are named in the Best 22. A $113k player who doesn't play earns $0 and prevents you from using that spot to generate cash.
What is the 'Ghost List'?+
The Ghost List refers to highly-owned $113k rookies who were hyped in the pre-season but fail to make the Round 1 team, 'haunting' coaches' benches all year.
How do I know if a $113k player will play?+
Check the 'Traffic Light' rankings on this site and monitor the official AFL team sheets released on Thursday nights.
Think a basement rookie is a Round 1 certainty? Back them for a debut in the Sportsbet 'Player Markets' section.
Check Debut Markets →Related articles
AAMI Community Series Wash-Up: SuperCoach 2026 Winners & Losers
The five biggest SuperCoach takeaways from the 2026 AAMI Community Series. We watched all nine practice matches so you didn't have to — here are the winners who locked in Round 1 spots, the losers who raised red flags, and the role changes that reshape your squad.
Read article →SuperCoach Round 1 Locks: 8 Players You Can't Leave Out
Eight SuperCoach 2026 players you absolutely cannot leave out of your Round 1 team. SC price, average, value score, and a one-sentence verdict on each — structured to help you lock in before the March 20 lockout.
Read article →Every AAMI Community Series Practice Match Reviewed: SuperCoach 2026 Takeaways
All 9 AAMI Community Series practice matches reviewed with SuperCoach analysis, three players to watch from every game, injury updates, and rookie signals heading into Round 1 2026.
Read article →