It is easy to dismiss George Hewett at Carlton, given the raft of superstars on their list.
But his 2025 has been "quite amazing", as coach Michael Voss put it, which in the face of a winless opening month followed by a fortnight of victories, it's even more damning.
As the Blues slumped to a 0-4 beginning, it was Hewett who stood among the under performers as the only beacon of light in a field of darkness.
Tasked with curbing some of the game's best players, the former Swan has emerged as one of the most impressive two-way runners in the competition, and his latest effort proved that.
Hewett sat on the recently re-signed Luke Davies-Uniacke in the Good Friday clash at Marvel Stadium, curbing his influence to 25 disposals, 254 metres gained, four clearances, one inside 50 and three score involvements. He was awarded the inaugural Superhero medal for best on ground.
On the other hand, the 29-year-old produced a career-best game, claiming 26.4 rating points from his 34 dispoasls, 12 clarances, nine tackles, eight score involvements, two direct goal assists and a goal.
"He's been pretty good the last few weeks, to be fair. His season at the start has been quite amazing," Voss said.
"He obviously had another role to do today as well, and for him to be able to execute that and still be able to have an impact in the game the way that he is. He's almost like a credit to his preparation, he's an absolute pro.
"No one puts more detail on his prep than George. He's a much-loved man at our club and the boys love playing with him."
The week prior against West Coast, Hewett collected a career-high 39 disposals, alongside eight clearances, eight marks and 14 score involvements.
Voss and Collingwood coach Craig McRae also rewarded his efforts on hindering Nick Daicos' impact in Round 4, turning defence into attack and making his direct opponents pay the ultimate price.
The Blues have started to turn around their putrid opening month of football, and largely have been due to the performances of Hewett.
The veteran midfielder has had his hands full up until this point, but Sunday's clash against Geelong will see Hewett have the pick of the bunch.
Will it be Bailey Smith he goes to? Or in-and-under player Tom Atkins?
Needless to say, it's hard to shake a Hewett tag. But be wary of his damage going the other way.
