The AFL Rookie Rankings are back for 2023, where we order the top six in-form debutants of the year each week as the season progresses.
Collingwood's Nick Daicos took out the 2022 Zero Hanger Rookie Rankings thanks to an unmatched debut season, claiming the crown ahead of Bomber Nic Martin and Saint Marcus Windhager.
This year's crop has seen a young Roo shoot out to an early lead, with five of the six ranked players following Round 1 selected in the first round of last year's draft, with the other being a Rookie Draft selection from 2021.
Criteria: For our Rookie Rankings, we are 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 prior to the 2023 season will not be considered.
I.e. players like Sam Darcy, Finn Callaghan and Jye Amiss are ineligible, having already played an AFL match prior to Round 1.ย ย
Round 1 honourable mentions:
Lachlan Cowan (Carlton)
Max Michalanney (Adelaide)
Will Ashcroft (Brisbane)
Bodhi Uwland (Gold Coast)
6. Ollie Hollandsย
Not many get to make their debuts in front of nearly 90,000, and Ollie Hollands looked at ease during his first game as a Blue.
A highlight for Hollands was his 1 vs 2 effort against a pair of Tigers in defensive 50, with the first-round pick able to take possession and create a contest further up the field.
Hollands was also among the leading players for ground coverage, flexing his aerobic ability that was often on show during his time with the Murray Bushrangers last year.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
With Sam Walsh still some time away from returning, expect Hollands to hold his place in Michael Voss' side for the weeks ahead, with his next contest coming against reigning premiers Geelong.
Teammate Lachie Cowan was also strongly considered for the No.6 spot in our rankings, but Hollands gets the nod after Round 1.
