Whether they're playing for a lesser-followed club, excelling in an overlooked position, or simply not getting the recognition they deserve — these five stars have flown under the radar this season.
One GWS star is having an All-Australian season, while a Gold Coast defender is reaping the rewards of a positional switch.
These footballers are in career-best form or have simply found the perfect balance of ball-winning and impact for their team.
5. Steele Sidebottom
Steele Sidebottom isn't a name that often flies under the radar (how could it?), although the 32-year-old hasn't quite seen the same hype as Nick Daicos and Scott Pendlebury as of late.
Collingwood sits alone atop the ladder and Sidebottom has been at his most influential during the club's untouchable run of form. While the midfielders' numbers aren't at an all-time high, he's been among the league's most damaging, with the Magpies great casually hitting targets on either foot.
Sidebottom, like his longtime teammate Pendlebury, seems to find the ball at the most opportune times — playing a game-winning role in the Pies' one-point win over Adelaide in Round 7.
The Collingwood veteran remains one of the club's most important players, as it seeks to win its first premiership since 2010.
