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
2. Will Ashcroft (-)
Another clean and composed game for the young Lion, who was again one of Brisbane's leading names, albeit in a loss against the Bulldogs.
The Brisbane father-son gun recorded 23 possessions, 10 of which were contested, to be among the Lions' leading ball winners as they look to keep themselves in the fight.
After a disappointing Round 1 outing and a stellar performance in Round 2, Ashcroft's latest efforts have helped his case for top spot, but he's beginning to face some competition for his own placing from the likes of Reuben Ginbey and Oliver Hollands.
Midfield
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
The Lions will face Collingwood at the Gabba to open Round 4 on Thursday night, with another tough challenge awaiting Ashcroft to conclude his first month at AFL level.
