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:
Connor Macdonald
*Positions based on Champion Data's 'general forward' qualifications.
3. Brent Daniels
Snubbed from a maiden All-Australian blazer, Daniels was arguably the best small forward in the AFL towards the end of the season.
A born match-winner, Daniels was key to a seven-game winning streak for GWS, including a game-breaking burst in the final quarter against Hawthorn in Round 21. That last quarter alone featured 12 disposals, six score involvements, and a goal.
Taking over from Miers' selfless supremacy in 2023, Daniels led the league in goal assists nearly all season long, averaging 1.5 per game. The 170cm Giant recorded 21.7 pressure acts per game, ranked third for general forwards, and 1.7 tackles inside 50, ranked in the top 15 of all players.
However, stats aren't what makes Daniels a top-three general forward in the game. His influence across four quarters are significant for GWS, and his five-, ten-minute, sometimes even quarter-long bursts of dominance are what makes Daniels so impactful. His ability to turn the game on its head embodies the best version of a general forward, and given he is only 25, a maiden All-Australian blazer may enter Daniels locker after the 2025 season completes.
