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:

2. Charlie Curnow

A down year forย Charlie Curnowย still saw him boot 57 goals and challenge for the Coleman Medal until the final rounds of the season.

If he's merely close to his best, he is still one of the three scariest inside 50 matchups in the competition, boasting some of the best hands in the league and the best contested marking craft of any key forward.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 27:ย Charlie Curnowย of the Blues celebrates kicking a goal during the round 24 AFL match betweenย Carlton Bluesย and Greater Western Sydney Giants at Marvel Stadium, on August 27, 2023, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

He is usually pinpoint in front of goal also, though he struggled to find the same accuracy in 2024, with about 42% of his scoring shots being minor scores, compared to 35% the season prior.

His record in finals holds him back but leaves the door ajar for growth, pending a potentially deep run for the Blues in 2025.