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.

Here is the first edition (50-41) of our top 50 AFL players right now...

3. 48 - Sam Darcy

With essentially his first full season under his belt, it's easy to see where the hype comes from with this 208cm Bulldog.

No player in the league can reach his peak in a marking contest and when the delivery is sharp, good luck stopping Darcy from plucking it.

LAUNCESTON, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 21: Sam Darcy of the Bulldogs celebrates kicking a goal during the round 23 AFL match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the Western Bulldogs at University of Tasmania Stadium on August 21, 2022 in Launceston, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

He's displayed impressively mature forward craft, accuracy in front of goal and just enough of a hard edge to keep opponents on their toes each week.

He should rip the number one key forward mantle off Aaron Naughton and Jamarra Ugle-Hagan next season and look to hit the 40-goal mark in 2025.