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.

9. Alex Rance

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - JULY 30: Alex Rance of the Tigers in action during the round 19 AFL match between the Greater Western Sydney Giants and the Richmond Tigers at Star Track Oval on July 30, 2016 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Mark Nolan/Getty Images)