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.
28-5
Lachie Whitfield (Rank 8)
One half of GWS' rebounding pair - the other being Lachie Ash - has found plenty of the ball and been pivotal in the club's ball movement from defence to attack. Whitfield has been left with too much responsibility to shoulder, but has had a strong individual season.
Tom Stewart (Rank 7)
The Cats interceptor is still incredibly influential, and rivals seemingly fail to curb his impact. Could Stewart be in line for a sixth All-Australian blazer?
Dayne Zorko (Rank 6)
When Zorko plays, the Lions are a different unit. When he doesn't, they look rudderless. The halfback is pivotal to the club's three-peat chances.
Lachie Neale (Rank 5)
The Lions midfielder, despite being tipped to depart the club, is still one of the best clearance players in the AFL. Neale's fast feet and creative hands rank him among the best veterans in the competition.
