There's further movement among the top six of our 2023 AFL Rookie Rankings, with the podium seeing a shift as a young Eagle continues to impress in the blue and gold.
North Melbourne's young star continues to hold top spot, while Hawthorn's fledgling midfielder enjoyed a strong Round 3 outing against his old Sandringham teammate.
A pair of Dees and a young Crow are beginning to strengthen their cases for a spot in the top six, with a Saints livewire falling back to the last spot in our rankings.
Criteria: For our Rookie Rankings, we are 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 2023 season will not be considered.
I.e. Rising Star eligible players such as Sam Darcy, Finn Callaghan and Jye Amiss are ineligible, having already played an AFL match prior to Round 1, 2023.
Honourable Mentions:
Max Michalanney (Adelaide)
Jacob van Rooyen (Melbourne)
Judd McVee (Melbourne)
Noah Long (West Coast)
SEE: Rookie Rankings after Round 2
5. Cameron Mackenzie (+1)
The young Hawk bounced back from a lowly Round 2 performance to be among Hawthorn's leading names in their win over North Melbourne, recording 20 possessions and laying nine tackles in the victory.
Mackenzie would shift between half-forward and midfield on his way to an impressive Round 3 outing, finding himself in the frame for an early Rising Star nomination.
The Sandringham product continues to offer a silky presence in Sam Mitchell's midfield, showing early signs of being a clone of his coach.
Midfield
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
The Hawks now set their sights on an Easter Monday clash against Geelong, where they will look to hand the Cats their fourth loss in as many rounds to start the season.
