Small-medium-sized forwards can turn a game on its head with livewire spark and flair, whilst others can both accumulate possession and tally multiple goals on the scoreboard.

Either way, the general forward has become a necessary commodity for a successful club, with the best teams often maximising the potential of their speedy, skillful smalls. As the 2025 season slowly approaches, it's time to reflect on the performances of the general forwards in 2024 and rank the top 10, analysing the exceptional goalkickers, forward 50 tacklers, and X-factor-laden game-winners.

Whilst stats are a telling indicator, this list will also evaluate the impact and influence each general forward has on games across the forward half of the ground.

From All-Australians to up-and-coming weapons reaching their prime, these forwards starred in their position in 2024 and will be a key component to their side's success in 2025.

Before we begin, here are a few notable players stiff to miss a top 10 spot, highlighting the growing importance of small-medium-sized forwards in the modern game.

Snubs:

Cameron Rayner

Jack Higgins

Connor Macdonald

Ben Keays

Kysaiah Pickett

Jack Ginnivan

Kai Lohmann

Willie Rioli

*Positions based on Champion Data's 'general forward' qualifications.

7. Gryan Miers

While Miers was likened to all-time soccer legend Lionel Messi last year in a troll tweet, it has become apparent that Miers' kicking ability is no joke.

Miers' knack for finding teammates in goalscoring positions has become a world-class feature of his game, averaging a goal assist per match whilst kicking nearly a goal each game himself this year.

GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 05: Gryan Miers of the Cats kicks the ball during the round 21 AFL match between Geelong Cats and Port Adelaide Power at GMHBA Stadium, on August 05, 2023, in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Kelly Defina/Getty Images)

The 25-year-old's season was albeit not as stunning as his 1.8 goal assists per game of 2023, but Miers hit the scoreboard more this season in Geelong's resurgence up the ladder. He also averaged 6.4 score involvements, ranking equal-second for Cats players.

Miers also averaged 1.2 tackles inside 50 per game, as well as 21.9 pressure acts, providing exceptional forward half pressure. With Miers and Stengle roaming the forward half, it's unsurprising why Geelong were a top-five team from scores off turnover.