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)
4. Reuben Ginbey
While Saturday afternoon's performance will be one to forget for the Eagles, top draft selection Reuben Ginbey can keep his head up high after giving a four-quarter effort.
The Dunsborough native recorded 12 tackles in his first game, the second highest tally for a debutant in V/AFL history since the stat has been recorded, with Hawthorn's Jai Newcombe holding the record with 14 from his first appearance in 2021.
Ginbey also amassed 15 disposals, four marks and collected seven contested possessions to be one of the few shining lights in West Coast's season opener.
Defender
Disposals
Marks
Rebound50s
The Eagles return to WA for Round 2, posting the Giants at Optus Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
