Defenders are arguably the most crucial players on the ground at any time during a game of AFL.
Whilst awards such as the Brownlow and Coleman Medal are highly respected, an award for the game's best defender is yet to be added to the AFL's top awards. Whilst the Brownlow can of course be won by any player, it is undoubtedly a 'midfielder's award' rather than a title for any player.
Whether it be a game-saving mark, diving interception, or a punch of the footy that would make the late great Danny Frawley proud, defenders deserve more recognition in our great game.
In 2023, plenty of defenders had phenomenal seasons. In this list, we tried to break down and order the ten best of the season just passed.
8. Tom Stewart
Despite the club's disappointing season in 2023, Tom Stewart was still as good as ever. Stewart earned his fifth All-Australian blazer in 2023, playing 22 games for the club.
Standing at 190cm, Stewart can play a variety of positions, both attacking and defensive. He can play as both a dashing half-back and an undersized defender.
What makes Stewart unique is his innate ability to cover any position in the back six, and do whatever is required for the Cats.
Defender
Disposals
Marks
Rebound50s
