Our Rookie Rankings after Round 20 have seen two young guns of the competition land spots among our top eight, while a Demon has moved up one more rung with a month left in the home and away season.
A young Hawks defender replaced a teammate in making his return to our rankings for the first time in two months, while a second Eagle has jumped into eighth place - making his first appearance for the year and replacing Brisbane's Jaspa Fletcher.
Blues wingman Oliver Hollands has earned another honourable mention since making his return from injury and will be rivalled by Tigers defender Tylar Young for the next spot in our top eight, with the latter putting together a strong last month.
Criteria:ย For ourย Rookie Rankings, we are selecting players who have made their debut this season. Other players who may still be eligible for a Rising Star nomination but have already made their debut prior to the 2023 season will not be considered.
I.e. Rising Star eligible players such asย Sam Darcy,ย Finn Callaghanย andย Jye Amissย are ineligible, having already played anย AFLย match prior to Round 1, 2023.ย
Round 20 Honourable Mentions:
Oliver Hollands
Luke Nankervis
Anthony Caminiti
Tylar Young
8. Elijah Hewett (NEW)
Has been the rookie to earn the most honourable mentions this year without finding a place in our rankings so far, but a consistent run and role for the Eagles have Hewett at eighth.
The flashy midfielder had one of his best performances on Sunday in the win over North Melbourne, recording 21 disposals, six contested touches, three clearances and a goal from just 68% time on ground.
A late knock sidelined the teenager as he finished the game on the interchange, but his role in the much-needed win was certainly present.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
The Eagles will be hoping one brings two this weekend when they travel to Marvel Stadium to face Essendon on Saturday.