The pair both played in premierships for the Tigers with Sproule part of their 2015 flag triumph.

While Albury dropped a bombshell after it selected Walker to make his debut for the club in the 2018 grand final victory against Wangaratta.

Miles said the pair remained hopeful of gaining an AFL lifeline in the draft starting on Wednesday, December 10.

"To be honest we haven't had any discussions with either of them yet," Miles said.

"My understanding is both the boys have been told by their respective clubs that they are firmly in the mix to be put on the rookie list.

"But with both the boys being premiership players at Albury we would be super keen to have a chat if they do get overlooked in the draft.

"Obviously we would love to have them back but they are both young and have the potential to at least play VFL if they desire.

"Mat has had a bit more time to weigh up his options than Zach and is most likely to play VFL if he isn't drafted."

IN OTHER NEWS

A Giants Academy graduate and former Murray Bushranger, Sproule was picked up in the 2017 rookie draft as an academy selection.

The 22-year-old made his debut for GWS in round 22 last year in his only AFL appearance.

Walker, 20, was selected with pick 63 in the 2018 national draft and didn't play a senior match as injuries cruelled his 2020 season.

Miles said he remained hopeful the duo could extend their time at the elite level.

"I know they are both training as hard as they can at the moment in case they get another crack at playing AFL," he said.

"From our perspective we would much rather that they be playing AFL.

"But we will support the boys regardless of what happens at the draft."

Miles anticipated that there would be dozens of former AFL players looking for new homes after the AFL draft is completed.

However, he ruled out the Tigers landing another high-profile recruit due to points pressure after snaring the prized signatures of Jeff Garlett and himself since the end of the 2019 season.

"I think there are quite a few clubs in the O&M who are close to the points threshold after recruiting well last summer," he said.

"So the potential to land another big fish is limited.

"I certainly know that Yarrawonga and ourselves are limited in what we can do recruiting wise and I think there are a few more clubs in the same boat.

"I would love to see who is available after the draft is finished.

"But that is why attracting former juniors who are worth one point back to your club has suddenly become so important.

"Signing Fletcher Carroll was massive for us.

"Clubs' junior programs and how crucial they are to the future is really starting to come to the fore."