Round 2 of the 2022 AFL season gave further insight into this season's leading candidates for our Rookie Rankings.
The weekend has seen a majority of the top five selections shift their place in the order, while a number of emerging names are pressing their case to break into the standings.
Hawthorn pair Josh Ward and Connor MacDonald are among those knocking on the door ahead of Round 3, with Tiger Josh Gibcus showing plenty of poise and potential in just his second career game as the trio earn honourable mentions.
For our Rookie Rankings, we are taking a look at 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 previously will not be considered.
VIEW: ROUND 1 RANKINGSย
Round 2 Honourable Mentions:
Aaron Black (West Coast) - 15 disposals, four marks, four clearances, one goal
Josh Gibcus (Richmond) - 10 disposals, four marks, 100% disposal efficiency
Josh Ward (Hawthorn) - 20 disposals, five marks, four clearances, one goal
Connor MacDonald (Hawthorn) - 18 disposals, two tackles, one goal
2. Josh Rachele (-)
The young Crows goalsneak was able to add to his goal-scoring tally almost instantly on Saturday, booting his sixth major of the season in just his fifth quarter of football.
Rachele also added another 20 disposals - eight of which contested - to his tally while showing further signs of his crafty presence in attack and through the midfield.
Ranked second last week, Rachele has done enough to hold his place toward the top of our rankings but is facing growing competition for a place on the podium.
Forward
Goals
Marks
Tackles
Should a strong Showdown performance ensue this week, the Adelaide teenager will be a strong chance for pole position come the cessation of Round 3.
