Key defenders are the backbone of any successful AFL team, providing the critical resistance needed to thwart opposition attacks and set up offensive transition.
As we turn away from the 2024 season, the competition boasts an impressive array of tall backs who excel at intercepting, contested marking and one-on-one contests.
This list highlights the top 10 key defenders in the AFL, celebrating those who have consistently demonstrated elite capabilities, as well as some stars on the rise poised to leave their mark.
Let's dive into who made the cut and who narrowly missed out as we rank the game's best tall defenders, beginning with the following players who just missed out:
Snubs
10. Liam Jones
One of the AFL's most unique and dynamic key defenders, displaying underrated aerial prowess and a fearless approach to intercept marking.
Originally drafted as a forward by the Western Bulldogs in 2008, it wasn't until a mid-career switch to defence during his tenure at Carlton that Jones truly vitalised his AFL career.
Upon his return to the Bulldogs in 2023 after a brief hiatus from AFL, Jones immediately established himself as a critical piece of their defensive unit. He excels at launching himself into contests, frequently opting for spoils rather than marks, and disrupts offensive chains with his timely interceptions.
One of his standout traits is the ability to push high up the ground, cutting off opposition rebound plays and forcing turnovers in damaging spots. Although he has had moments where he struggles to contain forward momentum, this is often attributed more to the team's defensive structure rather than individual errors.
Despite nearing the twilight of his career, Jones is still one of the more valuable assets for the Bulldogs as they look to contend in 2025.
