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
6. Matt Roberts
Roberts was the first to earn a Rising Star nomination in 2024, having made an instant imprint in a new role across half-back for Sydney.
The South Australian has since continued to put his stamp on the Swans' premiership pursuit, often being a go-to asset in defence as they look to move the ball from their backline with speed and precision.
Roberts had the best game of his young career in Sydney's only loss for the season, collecting 27 disposals, eight marks and five inside 50s in the defeat to Richmond in Round 3.
With an established role for the premiership favourites, you can discount Roberts from the Risung Star race.
