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:

4. Jake Waterman

Jake Waterman has risen to elite status among key forwards in 2024 after years of playing second and third fiddle behind Josh Kennedy and Jack Darling.

In a standout season, he embraced a traditional, hard-nosed style, thriving in one-on-one contests where the Eagles simply kicked it to his head, confident he'd deliver.

His aerial prowess inside 50 was second only to Hogan, and his contested marking was pivotal for West Coast.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MAY 04:ย Jake Watermanย of the Eagles celebrates a goal during the round eight AFL match betweenย West Coast Eaglesย andย Essendon Bombersย at Optus Stadium, on May 04, 2024, in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

Waterman's 53 goals this season obliterated his previous best of 18 in 2022, and his All-Australian selection is especially impressive, given West Coast's third-bottom finish on the ladder.

Withย Oscar Allenย set to return to full health and take on a larger role in 2025 amidย Jack Darling's departure to North Melbourne, Waterman will still be an integral part of West Coast's forward 50 fortunes.

If he can keep up this All-Australian form, he will be an essential piece of the Eagles' journey from the bottom of the ladder back toward finals contention.