At the conclusion of Round 6 we've expanded our Rookie Rankings to form a top seven thanks to a larger pool of talent and a better understanding of this year's class of debutants.
Our Rookie Rankings will again expand to eight players at the conclusion of the bye rounds.
This week's rankings see a Demons match-winner land at seventh overall, while there's some movement ahead of him. Our incumbent No.1 has seen his gap on the rest of the 2023 rookies shorted due to a tough Round 6 outing against the Suns.
This week's honourable mentions see a young Gold Coast forward earn some plaudits for his impact as the tactical sub, while a Hawk is quickly on the rise after just two games in the league.
Criteria: For our Rookie Rankings, we are selecting players who have made their debut this season. Other players who may still be eligible for a Rising Star nomination but have already made their debut prior to the 2023 season will not be considered.
I.e. Rising Star eligible players such as Sam Darcy, Finn Callaghan and Jye Amiss are ineligible, having already played an AFL match prior to Round 1, 2023.
Round 6 Honourable Mentions
Bailey Humphrey (Gold Coast)
Ollie Lord (Port Adelaide)
Seamus Mitchell (Hawthorn)
SEE: Rookie Rankings after Round 5
6. Mattaes Phillipou (-2)
Not the most prolific performance for the Saints forward but certainly nothing to be concerned about, with Phillipou still managing to collect 13 touches and flex his high-flying skills in the win over Carlton.
Through the form of others, the South Australian falls two spots in our rankings, but with the runs he has on the board, Phillipou will have some breathing space from van Rooyen in seventh.
The St Kilda livewire is right in contention for a podium spot in the coming rounds, with fans sure to be thinking a big performance is coming from Phillipou soon.
Forward
Marks
Tackles
Disposals
Another test for the Saints this week when they host Port Adelaide at Marvel Stadium.
