From leaping spoils to saving goals, the defensive roles aren't as flashy as further up the field.
The backline is the last group to receive recognition, but that doesn't mean its significance is diminished. More often than not, it's the stoppers, the restrictors and the defenders who win flags, and this list accurately reflects that.
Clubs that stormed into premiership contention were off the back of defensive improvement, while others doubled down on their standing in the competition.
At Zero Hanger, we've undertaken the challenge of ranking every club's backline from 1-18 for 2025.
7Gold Coast
The finals-drought-breaking season came largely from the improvement in the Suns' defence, headed by the acquisitions of Daniel Rioli and John Noble.
Sam Collins, Bodhi Uwland and Wil Powell had locked down roles under Damien Hardwick, while the absence of Charlie Ballard meant Mac Andrew was prominent in defence.
The majority of the Gold Coast backline rarely missed a game, contributing to their cohesion and clarity in position.
Hardwick's defence ranked top five for points against, whilst quickly becoming an attacking force that was hard to contend with.
The Suns started perfecting the ideal blend between offence and defence, and posed as a genuine threat in 2025, resulting in a semi-final appearance.
