The All-Australian team is (usually) comprised of the best 22 players each season. With a league littered with stars, every season a few unlucky players are left off the list. While not all snubs are as egregious as Brownlow Medal-winning pait Shane Woewoden and Matthew Priddis, there are some excellent performances that have been left out of the team.

Some players are disappointed for missing out on one standout season. While others have had a whole career of missing the cut for the All-Australian team.

We take a look at six players who have had exceptional careers, filled with accomplishments and accolades, and despite those careers, only one thing has eluded them... an All-Australian selection.

5. Taylor Walker

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA - JULY 13: Taylor Walker of the Crows runs out for the round 17 AFL match between the Gold Coast Suns and the Adelaide Crows at Metricon Stadium on July 13, 2019, in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

Taylor Walker has been a dominant force over the past decade, routinely being one of the top handful of key forwards. He has scored over 40 goals in six separate seasons, with three recording more than 50. After a disappointing 2020 season, Walker was on fire early last year, kicking 17 majors in three games before he quietened down towards the end of the season and battled with injuries. In 2021 he was on the cusp and would have likely made his first selection given a full 22-game season.

Time is starting to run out for the big forward. The 31-year-old is rounding into the twilight of his career. Prior to last season, many thought that the game was past him and had ridden off the forward. Adelaide is still unlikely to push for finals and is moving towards the youth movement. This will result in Walkerโ€™s opportunities starting to dwindle. Couple that with his club suspension from last season, it will be a while until we see Walker suit up for the Crows in 2022.

BALLARAT, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 25: Taylor Walker and his Crows teammates look dejected after losing the round 23 AFL match between the Western Bulldogs and the Adelaide Crows at Mars Stadium on August 25, 2019, in Ballarat, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

While there are no locks for the tall forward spots, there is plenty of competition for positioning. In his age range, Tom Hawkins and Lance Franklin both made the All-Australian squad in 2021, with Hawkins making the team. Jack Riewoldt was also on the cusp and could get back into contention if the Tigers drastically improve this season.

Younger prospects are still coming through too. Coleman medal winner Harry McKay is likely to push for another selection, while Aaron Naughton was also picked for the 40-man squad. Max King, Tom Lynch and Jeremey Cameron could all be in contention with a good enough season.

Walker has been an impactful and renowned player throughout his career, but it is looking increasingly likely that he will finish his career without an All-Australian selection.