Our Rookie Rankings have seen one change to the top eight after Round 20, with a host of numbers on the periphery edging closer to breakthroughs.
A young Lion has jumped into seventh after his return to the senior side, with his rise coming at the cost of an absent Pup.
With honourable mentions to the likes of in-form youngster Lawson Humphries, Billy Dowling, Calsher Dear and Josh Draper, there could be more change to come before we reach the end of the season.
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
Honourable Mentions:
Lawson Humphries (Geelong)
Josh Draper (Fremantle)
Billy Dowling (Adelaide)
Calsher Dear (Hawthorn)
8. Ryley Sanders (-1)
Was managed for Round 20 at a time when Footscray were scheduled for a bye, giving Sanders a breather before the last month of the home and away season.
It could pay dividends for the teenager, but with fellow onballer Jack Macrae in a similar position and the Dogs having one of their best performances of the year, it may be hard to see a return for the Tasmanian.
Midfield
The Dogs host the Demons on a five-day turnaround this Friday, meaning the fresh legs of Sanders and Macrae could be required as they look to rise from eighth.
