While less celebrated in the AFL, defenders have continued to do the heavy lifting on the last line for little credit in return.
The last several seasons have seen wave after wave of fresh faces stamp their authority as the leading backmen in the competition, with 2022 being no different.
This year's All-Australian back six saw four players earn their maiden blazers, meaning the last four years have included 20 different defenders in the backline.
Geelong, Melbourne and Fremantle ranked as the leading defensive clubs in 2022, with the former's rearguard proving decisive on their way to premiership glory.
Here we rank the top 10 defenders from the 2022 season.
9. Adam Saad
The Carlton running machine capped off a career-best campaign with an All-Australian blazer at half-back.
Saad and Sam Docherty combined to form a lethal one-two punch in defence with their running and disposal efficiency out of the backline, with the latter also having a strong case for All-Australian honours.
To best showcase Saad's running dominance in 2022, the former Sun and Bomber recorded 113 bounces for the year, more than double the next best in the AFL.
Defender
Disposals
Marks
Rebound50s
He also recorded a career-high 21.86 possessions per game, along with 4.71 rebounds 50s to emerge as a two-way threat for Michael Voss.
With the Blues setting their sights on a finals return for 2023, Saad will play an integral part in their hopes of snapping their September-less streak.
