In a season filled with unexpected turns, the AFL’s 2025 rankings have left fans and analysts alike in shock. Two of the league’s most celebrated players, Marcus Bontempelli and Nick Daicos, who were both in the pre-season top five, find themselves notably absent from the top spots. This development has sparked widespread discussion about the criteria and consistency of player evaluations.
The announcement comes as Shaun Mannagh, at 28, was awarded the coaches’ best “young player” of 2025, and the captain of the all-Australian team expressed surprise at his own selection, having never captained a team before. These decisions have added to the intrigue surrounding the official team of the year’s bench, where Bontempelli and Daicos were placed.
Unexpected Bench Selections
Marcus Bontempelli’s position on the bench was somewhat understandable, given he missed the first five matches of the season. His inclusion is a testament to his exceptional talent and determination. However, the placement of Nick Daicos, despite being named the AFLPA MVP for 2025, has raised eyebrows. Daicos’s recognition with the Leigh Matthews Trophy highlights his outstanding performance, yet it seems the All-Australian selectors were not aligned with this accolade.
“Nick Daicos took home the Leigh Matthews Trophy as the AFLPA MVP for 2025. Could the Brownlow be next?”
In evaluating the top 30 AFL players, Bontempelli and Daicos remain at the forefront, followed closely by Sydney’s Isaac Heeney and Geelong’s Jeremy Cameron. This ranking reflects a two-year cycle, emphasizing consistency over time rather than a single standout season.
Shifts in Player Rankings
Christian Petracca and Patrick Cripps, once projected as top contenders, have seen their rankings slip due to underwhelming performances in 2025. Their decline underscores the volatility of player rankings and the impact of fluctuating form. As the AFL looks to 2026, both players will be crucial to their respective teams’ success.
Zak Butters, with his agility and tenacity, has emerged as a standout player for Port Adelaide, while Adelaide’s Jordan Dawson has proven his leadership credentials, making a strong case for the Brownlow Medal. Noah Anderson and Hugh McCluggage have also made significant strides, with McCluggage being recognized as the premier player for the Brisbane Lions.
“The sublime Hugh McCluggage (No.8), finally recognized by the All-Australian selectors, has shot up the charts this year.”
Rising Stars and Key Performers
Riley Thilthorpe’s rise as Adelaide’s leading key forward highlights his impact on the team’s success. His performance has earned him a top-20 ranking, ahead of notable players like Lachie Neale and Matt Rowell. Meanwhile, Max Holmes and Bailey Smith continue to be pivotal for Geelong, showcasing their importance despite stiff competition.
Caleb Serong and Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera represent the future of the AFL, with the latter poised to become the league’s highest-paid player. As these young talents develop, their potential to dominate the league grows exponentially.
Defensive Strongholds and Emerging Talent
Defenders Harris Andrews and Sam Taylor have been instrumental in their teams’ defensive strategies, earning them top-ten rankings. Meanwhile, players like Ed Richards and Kysaiah Pickett are making their mark, though they have yet to reach the elite status of their more established counterparts.
The 2025 AFL rankings reflect a dynamic and competitive landscape, where consistency and adaptability are key. As the league evolves, so too will the players who define it, ensuring that the AFL remains a thrilling spectacle for fans worldwide.
Looking ahead, the 2026 season promises to be equally compelling, with established stars and emerging talents vying for supremacy. The ongoing narrative of the AFL is one of change and opportunity, where every match can redefine a player’s legacy.
