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
4. James Sicily
While the Hawthorn skipper was a genuine dual-threat as a key position player this season - able to roll forward and be a match-winner when required - he has made a career for himself honing his craft and controlling matches as an interceptor.
He almost won a semi-final off his own boot this year against Port Adelaide the week after destroying Luke Beveridge's forward line with a dominant display in defence.
Hawthorn look destined to rise into premiership contention as early as next season and Sicily is the driving force behind the on-field performance.
A strong argument could be made that Sicily is a better overall player than the key defenders listed ahead of him here, but top five placement is a fitting testament to his defensive prowess.
