Who is the best veteran in the AFL?
In the wake of the AFL's 22 u22 40-man squad being revealed, I took the liberty of ranking the best 32 over-32-year-olds.
I used Zero Hanger's AFL Player Rater - our system uses a proven Elo rating algorithm - the same system used in global sports rankings. All players start with the same rating, and each vote adjusts their score based on the strength of their opponent.
Every vote directly impacts the live AFL Player Ratings, creating a dynamic, fan-driven leaderboard of the best players in the AFL.
Beating a highly ranked player earns more points, while losing to a lower-ranked player results in a bigger drop. This creates a constantly evolving ranking system that rewards form, consistency, and performance - meaning the best AFL players rise to the top based on real fan opinion.
The rankings were recorded at Aug 6.
424-17
Jake Stringer (Rank 24)
The Giants forward has nearly kicked 40 goals in his second season at the club. Stringer's future may be uncertain, but one thing we know is he knows how to hit the scoreboard.
Tom Liberatore (Rank 23)
The Bulldogs midfielder still has a knack for finding the football and sourcing teammates in better places. Liberatore has been dealt with injuries this year, but is keen to continue playing next season.
Dane Rampe (Rank 22)
The Swans veteran is more often than not first picked in defence. Rampe's ability to play on smalls and talls is rare in the AFL, while his leadership and selflessness behind the ball are valued at a premium at Sydney.
Tim Membrey (Rank 21)
The Pies forward has hit a purple patch in form of late, and is still finding ways to kick goals. Membrey's forward craft and running patterns are different to his teammates, which results in him finding space in the front half.
Brad Hill (Rank 20)
When left to his own devices, St Kilda's speedster will carve you up with overlap ball movement and elite foot skills. Hill does roam mainly between the arcs, utilising his aerobic capacity to get involved in ball movement chains.
Brody Mihocek (Rank 19)
An unfortunate injury to the Demons forward ended his season, and puts his career in jeopardy. In new colours, Mihocek was impressing while also alleviating the pressure on Melbourne's young forwards.
Luke Parker (Rank 18)
The North Melbourne leader has gone back to help set up the ground whilst assisting with directing his younger teammates. Parker still finds plenty of the ball.
Toby Greene (Rank 17)
A bit of a lone wolf at the Giants given the amount of injuries they have faced. Greene has played forward and midfield, and would be in the running for the club's best and fairest.
