Our Zero Hanger AFL Player Ratings has determined who would be currently leading the Rising Star race if the season ended now.
The ratings are a fan-voted AFL player concept where two players are compared to each other based on a certified Elo rating algorithm, and you get to choose who you believe is the better player.
To fit the Rising star criteria players must be under the age of 21 and have played in 10 or less games before the season has started.
(These rankings are accurate as of May 7)
8Phoenix Gothard
Leaderboard ranking: 312th, Rating points: 1566.5
The Giants' electric small forward has had a breakthrough in his third season at the club. After playing in zero games across 2024-25, he has now played all eight games in 2026.
His pressure as a forward is one of his strengths, and he has been able to hit the scoreboard as well, while accumulating 15 touches per game. He has really proven himself as an up-and-coming small forward.
