The evolution of the ruck role has dramatically changed over the years.
From what was a means to help direct the ball to a midfielder in a ruck contest to now being a key part of what happens around the ground, a ruckman's job has never been tougher.
The expectation to help out in defence, join in on the chain from the backline to the forward line, and push hard into the front half to provide aerial support, the role has never been more expansive.
That is why some ruckmen are the best in their cohort and rival some of the competition's top-tier players.
Before we begin, here are a few notable players stiff to miss a top 10 spot...
Snubs:
Mark Blicavs
Jarrod Witts
Toby Nankervis
Sean Darcy
Lloyd Meek
Sam Draper
Reilly O'Brien
9. Luke Jackson
The prototype of the modern ruckman, the Dockers tall has all the attributes to become the game's best in his role.
Jackson's time at Fremantle has been impressive but has floundered at times, given he lines up alongside Sean Darcy.
At his best, the 23-year-old would take on the role single-handedly, virtually adding a fourth onballer to the Dockers midfield due to his strength in reacting better than his opponent.
Jackson is also adding forward craft to his game, which will only bode well for coach Justin Longmuir in the long run.
