A month into the season,and many rising stars from last year have continued their standout form, while those who struggled with injuries have finally made their mark on the field.

This list is based on the current standing of players from the 2024 draft and mid-season draft, while also focusing on their improvement and where they could sit by season's end.

But who of those will continue to elevate their game and prove the second-year blues superstitions wrong?

8Jagga Smith

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 18: Jagga Smith of the Blues in action during the 2026 AFL match simulation between the Brisbane Lions and the Carlton Blues at Brighton Homes Arena on February 18, 2026 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 18: Jagga Smith of the Blues in action during the 2026 AFL match simulation between the Brisbane Lions and the Carlton Blues at Brighton Homes Arena on February 18, 2026 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Being one of the most talented players on this list, Smith's current placement is the one most up for interpretation after only having played three AFL games due to an ACL injury. The 2024 Pick 3 has lived up to early expectations after already being in the top 20 of disposal average and having a prolific 32 touches against Richmond in Round 1.

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