Continuing our positional rankings ahead of the 2026 season, our focus now turns to those who excel at intercepting, offensive transition and crucial lockdown roles.
This list is not just about pure stats, but also considers overall impact, versatility and the ability to influence games from the backline in this mix of half-back generals and key defender stalwarts.
So, who were the 10 best defenders in the 2025 AFL season? Before we delve into the 10 best defenders, here is a group of players unlucky not to be rewarded with a spot on the list.
Unlucky to miss:
Jack Sinclair - 27.0 disposals, 494.7 metres gained, 4.7 rebound 50s
Nick Blakey - 21.4 disposals, 557.7 metres gained, 6.3 rebound 50s
Lachie Ash - 28.7 disposals, 553.0 metres gained, 6.3 rebound 50s
Lachie Whitfield - 27.0 disposals, 487.6 metres gained, 5.4 rebound 50s
Jacob Weitering - 13.7 disposals, 7.0 marks, 12.7% defensive 1v1 contests lost
Darcy Moore - 10.6 disposals, 4.5 marks, 7.2 spoils
8Nick Vlastuin
Nick Vlastuin remains one of the league's most intimidating defenders, despite playing on a poor Richmond side that managed just five wins in 2025.
The 31-year-old's lethal kick saw him create over 5.4 rebound 50s per game while he continued to demonstrate his impressive contested ball-winning ability in defence, averaging six contested possessions per game in 2025.
Vlastuin's blend of intercept marking, defensive nous and leadership will be pivotal as he continues to anchor the Tigers' defence and mentor the emerging talent within the squad, including the likes of future defensive stars in Luke Trainor and Tom Brown.
