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

2. Darcy Moore

Darcy Moore finally put pen to paper on a new deal with the Pies, leaving fans over the moon that the 25-year-old decided to stay. Moore's speed and ability in the contest is pertinent to Collingwood's impressive defence, and 2020 showed that he is one of the, if not the most valuable defenders in the league. He is extremely well-rounded in many areas of his game, polling elite inside 50s numbers, as well as being above average in intercept possessions, effective disposals and spoils.