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.
10St Kilda
The Saints started to create the perfect blend of lockdown defenders and attacking rebounders, headed by Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera.
However, the young star looks poised for more midfield minutes, which could see a vacancy that needs filling.
Callum Wilkie is one of the best key defenders in the competition, and Alix Tauru impressed in his short time at the club.
Jack Sinclair's versatility sees him play in the backline more often than not, helping transition the ball from one end to the other.
Anthony Caminiti, Liam Stocker and Ryan Byrnes all played significant minutes in Ross Lyon's outfit, but in this day and age, they need to add an offensive skillset to the mix.
Dougal Howard's wretched injury run continued, but he should be pivotal to the team next year, as will recruit Jack Silvagni.
