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
1. Nick Daicos (+3)
The prized Collingwood pick looks right at home in Craig McRae's system, linking up within the free-flowing ball movement between defence and midfield.
Daicos recorded 22 touches in the Magpies' seven-goal win over Adelaide at the MCG, also amassing four marks and nearly 350 metres gained.
While the performance wasn't as dazzling or prolific as his debut, it has placed Daicos as one of the more consistent operators among this year's rookie class.
Defender
Marks
Disposals
Rebound50s
The teenager will face a more arduous task this weekend when the Magpies return to the 'G to face Geelong, with Daicos hoping to hold his place atop our rankings with another strong outing.
