In the next segment of our series looking over the best draft prospects by position, we identify the leading defensive options ahead of next week's count.

Among the leading options among defenders this year we could see a handful of backmen taken in the first round, while a litter of either rearguard selections will scatter across the final few rounds on the second night of the draft.

SEE ALSO: TOP FIVE FORWARDS AHEAD OF THE 2022 AFL DRAFT

Here we rank the five best defenders ahead of next Monday's National Draft.

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1. Jedd Busslinger

Position: Tall Defender
State: Western Australia
State League Club: East Perth
Community Club: Coolbinia
Date of Birth: 11/03/04
Height: 196cm
Weight: 82kg

Busslinger is an exciting intercept defender out of WA, showing off his elite aerial ability and composure in recent seasons that have placed him in the frame as a potential top 10 selection.

While shoulder surgery curtailed his 2022 season, Busslinger has enough runs on the board to hold the title as the leading defensive prospect in this year's class.

Despite a limited year, Busslinger earned All-Australian honours at centre-half-back this year despite just two matches for his state.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 02: Jedd Busslinger in action during the 2022 NAB AFL National Championships U18 Boys match between Vic Metro and Western Australia at Ikon Park on July 02, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos)

Busslinger averaged 22 possessions, 7 marks and 4.5 rebounds 50s for Western Australia in the National Championships this year to really impress at the top level, orchestrating his side's rearguard with great two-way abilities.

His high ball use is another weapon Busslinger possesses, offering efficient disposal efficiency out of the back half.

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