West Coast young gun Harley Reid has moved up two places in our Rookie Rankings after Gather Round, going ahead of two Demons to sit second overall.
The weekend's results have seen some movement among our top five, with Reid's impressive afternoon at Mt Barker forcing some change near the top.
Perhaps the biggest talking point from the weekend surrounding eligible rookies is Gold Coast draftee Sam Clohesy, who had arguably the most impressive debut game we've seen this year.
Clohesy recorded 22 disposals, eight marks, 489 metres gained, five inside 50s, four score involvements and four intercept possessions across half-back and on the wing.
Western Bulldogs youngster Ryley Sanders also gets an honourable mention from Round 4, with the Pick 6 selection not far from breaking into our top five.
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 4 Honourable Mentions:
Sam Clohesy (Gold Coast)
Will Graham (Gold Coast)
Ryley Sanders (Western Bulldogs)
Darcy Wilson (St Kilda)
4. Blake Howes (-1)
It was another slow start for Howes on Thursday night, collecting just one touch before the main break against the Crows before finding more of the ball in the second half.
Howes has had a few slow starts across the opening five rounds but looks to grow across the game, with Thursday's win perhaps his quietest performance yet.
The young Demons defender has remained a stable asset on Simon Goodwin's last line though, and should hold his place in Melbourne's side for Thursday's clash with Brisbane.
Defender
Marks
Disposals
Rebound50s
The matchup with the Lions will be Melbourne's last outing before their Round 6 bye, giving Howes the chance to strengthen his place in our Rookie Rankings before an early break.
