With the 2024 season in the rear-view mirror, it's time to list the cream of the crop of AFL talent.

We've compiled a list of the top 50 players in the competition, assessing each candidate on a subjective mix of their 2024 production, career pedigree, and future projection.

Ranking an exclusive list of AFL stars has never been more difficult. Each team is littered with candidates on all lines and different players press their case for All-Australian recognition every week.

A plethora of genuine stars have not even made the cut inside the top 50, a handful of names have been included despite interrupted campaigns, while a few have been featured ahead of their time.

SEE: TOP 50 AFTER 2024 (50-41)

Here is the second edition (40-31) of our top 50 AFL players right now...

5. 36 - Matt Rowell

You could make the argument no AFL player is better at his job than Matt Rowell. He is a contested possession beast who racks up clearances and tackles like few others in the game.

He set the second highest tally for clearances in a single match with 20 against Richmond to kick off 2024. He continued his explosive start and looked like an early favourite for the Brownlow, before tapering off slightly.

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 09: Matt Rowell of the Suns in action during the 2024 AFL Opening Round match between the Gold Coast SUNS and the Richmond Tigers at People First Stadium on March 09, 2024 in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

At just 23, he already may be the best 'phone-box' player in the competition, ranking third in the AFL this season for contested possessions and first for tackles with eight per game.

His ability to break away from the contest has also improved, making him more dynamic, though his goal tally (8) shows room for growth.