Former St Kilda and North Melbourne midfielder Nick Dal Santo's distinguished 15-year career came to an end last season after playing 322 games, competing in three grand finals and playing in countless finals.

Given his honour role, plus the fact he only retired at the end of last season, Dal Santo should know plenty about the players set to take the competition by storm in 2017.

Speaking on SEN Radio on Monday morning, the 33-year-old, named his top 10 players ahead of the 2017 season.

Surpsingly, reigning Brownlow Medalist, Patrick Dangerfield, did not top the list, with a returning star instead taking the number one spot.

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10. Eddie Betts

"The best small forward in the league. Needs a lot of credit," Dal Santo said of Betts.

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 10: Eddie Betts of the Crows celebrates after kicking a goal during the AFL 1st Elimination Final match between the Adelaide Crows and the North Melbourne Kangaroos at Adelaide Oval on September 10, 2016 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Morne de Klerk/Getty Images)
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