The 2025 AFL season presents another opportunity for some of the competition's lesser-known big men to enjoy breakout seasons.
It seems each year there's a fringe ruckman or two who make a name for themselves with stellar rises after earning first-string status come selection.
Tristan Xerri, Tom De Koning and Lloyd Meek enjoyed massive campaigns last year after taking the main spot, while GWS big man Kieren Briggs did the same the season prior.
With the emergence of more rucks, we've taken a look at which players could follow the same trajectory in 2025.
3. Ned Moyle
Ned Moyle took his chances in 2024 and proved he could thrive at AFL level, setting the stage for a breakout 2025 season.
With Damien Hardwick and the Suns' coaching staff looking to integrate a younger, more dynamic ruck setup, Moyle has the perfect platform to take the next step.
Averaging 28 hitouts and 14 disposals last season, Moyle has already demonstrated his ability to compete against top-level ruckmen. At 206cm, his size and strength make him an imposing presence, but it's his agility and ability to cover the ground that make him a standout prospect. He thrives in follow-up efforts, regularly winning clearances himself and providing his midfielders with strong second efforts.
While Jarrod Witts remains contracted until the end of 2026, Moyle will continue to push for a greater share of the ruck duties. Witts' experience provides a valuable mentorship, but as the younger option with superior mobility, Moyle is set to demand more game time. If the Suns look to balance Witts' workload, 2025 could be the year Moyle cements himself as the club's long-term No.1 ruck.
