The results of Gather Round have led to a number of changes among our 2023 AFL Rookie Rankings, with four players shifting in their spots as the top two hold onto a convincing lead at the summit.
The consistent form of a Crows backman and St Kilda livewire has seen them jump into third and fourth spot respectively, while a new Hawk was the sole honourable mention from the weekend.
Our Rookie Rankings will expand to seven players from Round 6, opening up a chance for a new face to land in our order new week.
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. Rising Star eligible players such as Sam Darcy, Finn Callaghan and Jye Amiss are ineligible, having already played an AFL match prior to Round 1, 2023.
Round 5 honourable mentions:
Seamus Mitchell (Hawthorn)
SEE: Rookie Rankings after Round 4
3. Max Michalanney (+3)
The young Crow's past few weeks have seen him not only land in our Rookie Rankings but also shoot into a podium position, with a well-balanced evening against Carlton adding to an impressive run for Michalanney.
The Crows backman moved the ball at 90% efficiency in the 56-point victory, with a highlight of the night coming late into the last term as Michalanney moved through the middle of the field and delivered a pinpoint pass to Darcy Fogarty to end on a high note.
What has been impressive for Michalanney's campaign has been the composure he's held in the Crows' backline, often taking on the opponent's most threatening small forward.
Defender
Marks
Disposals
Rebound50s
Michalanney and the Crows could move higher up the order next week as they prepare to face the 18th-placed Hawks in Tasmania.
