Zero Hanger'sย Rookie Rankings are back for 2024, with Opening Round seeing five players make their debut in the northern states.
Melbourne blooded a pair of new faces in Thursday's loss to Sydney, while Collingwood and GWS each unveiled a debutant in their clash on Saturday night.
To start our Rookie Rankings for 2024, we'll list the top five 'rookies' before adding an extra spot in our rankings at the end of Rounds 6, 12 and 18.
Selection Criteria:ย For ourย Rookie Rankings, we are ONLY selecting players who have made their debut this season.
Other players who may still be eligible for a Rising Star nomination but have already made their debut prior to the 2024 season will not be considered. I.e. Rising Star eligible players such as George Wardlaw, Angus Sheldrick and Sam Darcyย are ineligible, having already played anย AFL match prior to Round 1, 2024.ย
Here's how our Rookie Rankings take shape after the opening four games of the season...
5. Charlie Dean (Collingwood)
Following a long wait to make his debut, Magpie Charlie Dean was strong in his maiden showing at AFL level despite the Giants running over the Magpies on Saturday night.
Matching up on former No.1 draft pick Aaron Cadman, Dean notched up a couple of wins in the air and also looked composed at ground level to place himself in good stead come Round 1 selection.
The former Williamstown backman recorded nine disposals (88.9% efficiency), four intercept possessions and three marks in his debut.
Collingwood return to Victoria this week to take on Sydney, where Dean could be needed to tame one of Logan McDonald, Hayden McLean or Joel Amartey.
