Our Rookie Rankings after Round 7 have seen no change for the first time this season, while there's plenty of new candidates putting their name up for a chance heading into this weekend.
Carlton's Alex Cincotta has managed a stellar opening two games for the Blues and now looks likely to make the jump into our top seven should his form continue, while young Docker Matthew Johnson was also worthy of an honourable mention from Round 7.
The top of our rankings remain the same, but the gap between top spot and second has significantly narrowed over the past fortnight, with a young Lion now having a live chance to overtake pole position by this time next week.
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,ย Finn Callaghanย andย Jye Amissย are ineligible, having already played anย AFL match prior to Round 1, 2023.ย
Round 7 Honourable Mentions
Alex Cincotta (Carlton)
Matthew Johnson (Fremantle)
2. Will Ashcroft (-)
A season-best performance for the Lions' young gun, who is now also in the running for Goal of the Year on top of his Rising Star prospects.
A stunning mid-air boot in the Gabba pocket might be enough for Ashcroft to take the car home, with his acrobatic efforts among his plethora of highlights against the Dockers.
Ashcroft ended his afternoon with 28 possessions and two goals in 48-point will, further narrowing the gap between himself and top spot in our Rookie Rankings.
Midfield
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
The Lions will be hoping to continue their winning run this week when they venture to Marvel Stadium to play Carlton on Friday night.
