It's often labelled a midfielder's competition, and the AFL has seen a plethora of elite talent in this position, particularly in recent seasons.
Most annual AFL awards and accomplishments are achieved out of the midfield position and while many argue that premierships start with the backline, it is clear that dynasties are made by the midfield (see Richmond, Hawthorn, Brisbane).
While it is scrutinised by many pundits, every AFL All-Australian team is littered with them, 2022 alone featured eight mids all over the ground.
Without further ado, here are our rankings of the top 10 midfielders of 2022.
SEE ALSO: TOP 10 DEFENDERS OF 2022
10. Jack Crisp
Crisp's pure stats pale in comparison to some midfielders who do not feature on this list, but his impact on the current Collingwood side transcends the numbers.
As a side, Collingwood were routinely trounced in most statistical categories for almost every game they played in 2022, yet consistently found a way to win. Crisp embodied this reality, putting up an above-average 23.8 disposals, 5.2 score involvements and 5.5 tackles yet providing elite-level impact in crucial games for the Magpies.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Inside50s
His finals performances influenced his rank within the top 10, providing more than a goal per game as arguably Collingwood's best player in two out of the three matches.
He performs with a level of explosiveness and grit that heavily contributes to a winning culture. Pies fans would remember a particular play trailing by 21 in the fourth quarter of a famous Round 19 match against Essendon, where Crisp initiated a brave play off half-back which led to a goal and sparked a match-winning comeback.
It's these countless team-lifting efforts and moments which earn Crisp a spot on this list.
