The race for the 2024 Rising Star honour has become a much tighter fight after the two award favourites were ruled ineligible due to suspension over the weekend.
2024 Pick 1 selection Harley Reid was the clubhouse leader for the award after his scintillating start to life in the AFL, while Western Bulldogs forward Sam Darcy looked to be the only young gun contending with Reid for the title heading into Round 12.
But with both players handed suspensions* for rough conduct, they now find themselves out of the race for the Rising Star Award, with the door now open for several other contenders heading into the second half of the season.
Here we've narrowed that list down to SIX players who stand a good chance to take out the award following the recent curveball.
*Reid and West Coast will challenge the suspension, however are more likely to reduce the ban than have it removed.ย
RELATED: EVERY PLAYER ELIGIBLE FOR THE 2024 RISING STAR AWARD
5. Caleb Windsor
Another wingman who has been a staple in his club's plans across the opening 12 rounds, Windsor is every chance to take out the Rising Star Award if his form so far this year is anything to go by.
While he may not put up the same numbers as Wilson, Windsor has often had a large impact on a number of wins for the Demons with his ability to run out games with plenty in the tank.
The teenager booked his Rising Star nomination in Round 8 when the Demons edged past a then-undefeated Geelong outfit, with the speed Demon booting a goal from his eight touches in a mature performance.
One of a few to have played every game this year, Windsor could be on the end of some votes given his longevity across the season and role in a contending club.
