Backlines can often do the heavy lifting in footy, especially if they're part of a side looking to turn their list around at the foot of the ladder.
With A-grade defenders a commodity in the AFL, and half-backs often going unnoticed whilst offering their best efforts, those that ply their trade down back hold an accountable role that can go unrewarded.
As made evident in last year's premiership run, a well-gelled rearguard can be the cornerstone in conjuring the right list worthy of planting their flag at the summit come the end of the season.
With the season nearing and each side looking to improve on the results of yesteryear, we profile each side's list of defenders and rank them against their league counterparts.
AFL BACKLINES RANKED 18-13
AFL BACKLINES RANKED 12-7
6. Port Adelaide
The Power boast a tremendous balance of talented talls and exciting smalls in defence.
Captain Tom Jonas will lead from the back again in 2022, while All-Australian defender Aliir Aliir is regarded as one of the most dominant big men in the competition.
Behind them in the queue falls Trent McKenzie and Tom Clurey, who add much-needed reinforcement for the aforementioned Jonas and Aliir.
Defender
Disposals
Marks
Rebound50s
Across half-back, All-Australian runner Darcy Byrne-Jones, accumulator Dan Houston, former Hawk Ryan Burton and fringe runner Riley Bonner also add edge to the Power's backline.
2021 breakout utility Karl Amon has also shown a great capacity to move into defence when required, linking up in transitions across the back third.
For depth, Ken Hinkley is able to rely on two of the most exciting defenders in the AFL, with Lachie Jones and Josh Sinn sure to see extensive minutes in 2022.
