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.
7. Tom Barrass
While the Eagles had arguably the worst season in their existence, defender Tom Barrass was the glimmer of hope on Adam Simpson's last line.
The big-bodied backman was rock solid for West Coast throughout their difficult year, with Barrass being the club's only All-Australian squad selection thanks to a dazzling campaign down back.
Barrass would end his eighth season in the royal blue and gold as the second-best intercept-marking player in the league, recording 72 intercept marks for the year.
His ability to accurately move the ball out of the back third shouldn't go unnoticed either, with Barrass boasting the second-best kicking efficiency among defenders in 2022, moving the ball by foot at a rate of 87.6% (min. 200 kicks).
While the Eagles are set for another few headache-inducing seasons, Barrass will give them some relief for the years to come.
