Our top 10 series continues with arguably the most valuable commodity in the game; the key forward.

Every team needs a capable tall target up forward if they're any hope of competing in big games, and boasting a superstar helps dramatically.

While premiership teams don't often hold the keys to the Coleman medallist on their team, having a target like Charlie Curnow inside 50 strikes fear into opposing sides and provides a bail-out option against potent defensive schemes.

While they don't dominate the game like they used to, when forward 50s were cleared out to allow unstoppable one-on-one matchups, teams still require a target to take marks, hit the scoreboard, provide a contest and work up the ground.

The position is more demanding than ever and in higher demand than ever, evidenced by the lucrative deals and offers that accompany most primary options in the league.

This list ranks the best key forwards ahead of 2025, starting with those who just missed the top 10.

Snubs:

8. Sam Darcy

With essentially his first full season under his belt, it's easy to see where the hype comes from with this 208cm Bulldog.

No player in the league can reach his peak in a marking contest and when the delivery is sharp, good luck stopping Darcy from plucking it.

LAUNCESTON, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 21:ย Sam Darcyย of the Bulldogs celebrates kicking a goal during the round 23 AFL match between theย Hawthorn Hawksย and theย Western Bulldogsย at University of Tasmania Stadium on August 21, 2022 in Launceston, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

He's displayed impressively mature forward craft, accuracy in front of goal and just enough of a hard edge to keep opponents on their toes each week.

We predict he'll rip the number one key forward mantle off Aaron Naughtonย andย Jamarra Ugle-Hagan next season and hit the 40-goal mark in 2025 with a healthy campaign.