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.
13Carlton
If it weren't for Jacob Weitering, the Blues would be much worse on the list.
The All-Australian defender not only held his own, but also assisted his teammates in their matchups.
Nick Haynes was shaky early but found his groove in the end and proved vital to the club's intercepting ability.
Ollie Hollands and Matt Carroll showed their skillset across half-back as the Blues' go-to ball users, while Adam Saad, despite playing 21 games, took a backwards seat.
The retired Sam Docherty and emerging Lachlan Cowan struggled with form and injury, contributing to the defensive woes, which were heightened when Mitch McGovern was in the backline.
Jack Silvagni and Lewis Young played 13 matches each, and the former will be sorely missed after joining St Kilda in the off-season.
Harry O'Farrell showed plenty, but will likely miss the majority of 2026 due to an ACL injury.
