The end of Round 15 has seen significant movement among our Rookie Rankings, including a lead change for the first time this year.
At the conclusion of the bye rounds we've extended our rankings to a top eight, opening up a spot for another in-form youngster to present themselves in our race as we reach the home stretch.
The change has seen a young Docker and a Hawks defender move into our rankings, while seven of the top eight have moved places.
Criteria: For our 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 as Sam Darcy, Finn Callaghan and Jye Amiss are ineligible, having already played an AFL match prior to Round 1, 2023.Â
Round 15 Honourable Mentions:
Judd McVee (Melbourne)
Elijah Hewett (West Coast)
Cameron Mackenzie (Hawthorn)
1. Will Ashcroft (+1)
The young Lions star has moved into the No.1 spot for the first time this year in taking advantage of Sheezel's bye round absence.
Ashcroft moves ahead of his former Sandringham Dragons teammate off the back of another solid display, collecting 16 possessions and laying seven tackles in Friday's win over St Kilda.
The impressive ball-winner continues to be a reliable role player through midfield and has emerged as the favourite for this year's Rising Star Award.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
With the gap between Ashcroft and Sheezel slim, the Lions onballer will be looking to piece together another strong outing on Thursday when Brisbane host Richmond at the Gabba.
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