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
7. Christian Petracca
Petracca would likely have sat atop the midfielders list this time last year after a phenomenal 2021 season, winning the Norm Smith Medal with an all-time equal-high 39-disposal performance in the stellar Grand Final victory over the Dogs.
He hasn't underperformed since then but still falls to seventh on this list after many outstanding years from other elite midfielders.
His 6.5 inside 50s and 8.3 score involvements per game are both top two in the competition, and his 28 disposals per game are more impactful than most. His leg fracture during this year's finals series was a crucial setback for Melbourne's premiership hopes and a longer finals run may have elevated Petracca's ranking.
Midfielder
Disposals
Inside50s
Goals
He may well sit as a top-five player in the competition entering 2023 but based on the 2022 season alone, Petracca sits slightly lower than expected.
