Things are tight in our AFL Rookie Rankings ahead of the final round of the 2024 season, with a majority of our top eight a chance to shuffle spots before our rankings are locked in for the year.
The eighth and last place is arguably the most up for grabs, with a host of young guns outside of our rankings still in the mix heading into Round 24.
Currently occupied by Hawks ace Nick Watson, the last spot could undergo a swap should Watson have a poor end to his home and away campaign.
This week has seen spots three through five change, with all three sports able to change again before our final rankings.
Selection Criteria:ย For ourย Rookie Rankings, we are ONLY 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 before the 2024 season will not be considered. I.e. Rising Star eligible players such as George Wardlaw, Angus Sheldrick and Sam Darcyย are ineligible, having already played anย AFL match before Round 1, 2024.ย
Round 23 Honourable Mentions:
Archie Roberts (Essendon)
Darcy Jones (GWS)
Joel Freijah (Western Bulldogs)
Lawson Humphries (Geelong)
8. Nick Watson (-)
'The Wizard' is holding off a growing chasing pack to sit in eighth spot in our Rookie Rankings with one round remaining.
All of Darcy Jones, Joel Freijah, Lawson Humphries and teammate Calsher Dear could claim the last spot in our Rookie Rankings should Watson have a quiet enough final game of the year.
The Hawks small forward did his prospects of a top eight finish no harm on Sunday in Hawthorn's beat-up of Richmond, booting three goals and having 10 score involvements from his dozen disposals.
Midfield
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
Facing North Melbourne this week before a likely finals berth, Watson will be hoping to have his kicking boots on to hold onto the last spot in our Rookie Rankings.
