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.
14-1
Brodie Grundy (Rank 4)
The Swans ruckman was on track to receive another All-Australian blazer, and is still in the conversation. Grundy's tap work and follow-up is a unique feature of his game that many rivals cannot compete with.
Jeremy Cameron (Rank 3)
Injury has curtailed Cameron's efforts this year, but he's still kicked 39 majors. The Cats are preparing him for a finals series, which is where the money is made.
Jack Gunston (Rank 2)
It's amazing what Gunston is doing at Hawthorn, and it has resulted in a one-year extension. Remarkably, he's in the running for the Coleman Medal, an All-Australian blazer, and will kick over 60 goals when the season comes to a conclusion. And maybe another flag.
Max Gawn (Rank 1)
There's no surprise the best ruck ever in the history of football is ranked as the No.1 veteran in the AFL. Gawn is expected to receive a record-breaking ninth All-Australian blazer, but the premiership cup is where his focus lies.
