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.
5. Tom Stewart
An up-and-down season was capped off with a premiership medallion in September for the Cats defender, an honour that adds to a decorated, yet short, career to date for Tom Stewart.
Now a household name at Kardinia Park in just six seasons in the AFL, Stewart adds the premiership crown to his 2021 Carji Greeves Medal and four All-Australian selections, having added another blazer this year.
Stewart again proved to be one of the most lethal defensive players in the AFL on either side of possession, averaging 23.3 disposals, 7.3 marks, 2.8 intercept marks and 4.1 score involvements per game.
Defender
Disposals
Marks
Rebound50s
The South Barwon product's year was marred by a four-game suspension for a high hit on Tiger Dion Prestia midway through the season. Stewart would eventually put the incident behind him on his way to the premiership.
Stewart firms as a leading option for Geelong to consider for their vacant captaincy from 2023 following the retirement of champion midfielder Joel Selwood.
