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.
316-9
Rory Laird (Rank 16)
The Adelaide utility has returned to an outside role following the development of Sam Berry and Izak Rankine. Laird's versatility makes him a certain starter in the senior side, and he has been pivotal throughout the season.
Sam Collins (Rank 15)
A shining light at Gold Coast this year is the key defender. Collins has dealt with a barrage of inside 50s from the opposition while attempting to curb the influence of the rival's best forward.
Jamie Elliott (Rank 14)
His season was cut short due to an ACL rupture and is expected to miss the first half of next year.
Taylor Walker (Rank 13)
The Crows gun is still kicking goals, even though he's managed every second or third week. But Adelaide is priming Walker for an all-out assault in September, and has managed him beautifully.
Jeremy Howe (Rank 12)
Arguably one of Collingwood's most important players this year in the absence of captain and key defender Darcy Moore. Howe is set to re-sign for next year, and his potentially season-ending arm injury is a major blow to the Pies.
Scott Pendlebury (Rank 11)
The V/AFL games record holder's role is more an on-field coach, helping teammates get to the right spots. Pendlebury runs the tram tracks through the middle of the ground, and still has a say on the outcome of games. It just looks different at age 38.
Charlie Cameron (Rank 10)
Cameron has returned to his goal-kicking best this year, and is on track to topple 50 majors by the end of the home and away season, with a finals series ahead.
Patrick Dangerfield (Rank 9)
The Cats are set to unleash Dangerfield ahead of another finals campaign under Chris Scott. Geelong has been careful with its captain, knowing full well what he can do in September. His 2026 season is still one to tip your hat to, and it's not close to being finished.
