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.

3. Patrick Dangerfield

GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 27: Patrick Dangerfield of the Cats runs with the ball during the round 23 AFL match between the Geelong Cats and the Melbourne Demons at Simonds Stadium on August 27, 2016 in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

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