With the new year upon us and all 18 clubs getting stuck into the thick of pre-season, it's time to remind ourselves who are the front-runners in each position across the league.

Here is our list of the top 10 defenders in the league heading the 2021 season.

See also:

The TEN best midfielders heading into 2021

The TEN best ruckmen heading into 2021

The TEN best forwards heading into 2021

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1. Harris Andrewsย 

Harris Andrews has solidified himself as the best defender in the competition at age 24. The two-metre tall key defender has silenced some of the league's best forwards with his incredible ability in one-on-one's.

Andrews put up more impressive disposals in season 2020, averaging 85.4% disposal efficiency per game, 9.3 one percenters and 8.9 spoils as he helped the Lions to a preliminary final. His age means that he is only just getting started, and he'll be at the top for a long while.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MAY 26: Harris Andrews of the Lions kicks the ball during the 2019 AFL round 10 match between the Fremantle Dockers and the Brisbane Lions at Optus Stadium on May 26, 2019 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Media/Getty Images)
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