The US Combine has the potential to unearth some new tall talent outside the traditional recruiting pathway, North director of football Geoff Walsh says.

The Roos have sent list manager Cameron Joyce and pro scout Nick Byrne to America to keep a close eye on the AFL’s three-day testing event at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.

Around 20 athletes – all over 200cm – from across the United States will undertake a range of physical tests and be interviewed by the four AFL clubs in attendance, including Essendon, Carlton and Richmond.

Walsh said there were a number of benefits of heading to the US Combine and watching international prospects.

"You’re able to develop a player that comes from a non-traditional market (and) he doesn’t have to go on your list so he doesn’t take up a list spot," Walsh told NMFC.com.au on Tuesday.

"These guys are athletes who are mobile and the fact they’re 200cm-plus gives them a chance that if they can adapt to our game, and that’s the big question, but if they can … then they become attractive propositions to put some time into.

"None of them will be overnight sensations but they’ll certainly give you the opportunity to put some resource into them and they may become a regular AFL player in time."

Clubs are allowed six rookie-listed players – or Category A rookies – under the AFL’s rookie list criteria.

A club can also include three additional players on its rookie list – known as Category B rookies – that include any international players and athletes from other sports.

Walsh said 197cm American college basketballer and international rookie Eric Wallace, who caught North’s attention in the 2012 AFL Draft Combine, is continuing to make progress despite an injury setback this pre-season.

“He’s an athlete that needs to improve his aerobic capacity; he hasn’t been able to work on that much this summer so that’s held him back,” Walsh said.

“In terms of his overall development, he’s come a long way. Last year, he rucked as North Ballarat’s lone ruckman for a lot of the senior year and acquitted himself quite well.”

In good news, Wallace played in Werribee’s development league match against Coburg last Saturday and was named among the Tigers’ best players.

“He’s changed clubs, he’s with Werribee now … and (development coach) Jarred Moore’s report was quite encouraging; he played quite well,” Walsh said.