A-graders unveiled: The player who made me break the rules

Sydney Morning Herald

by Sam McClure

February 22, 2026

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A-graders unveiled: The player who made me break the rules

The AFL’s “A-graders” represent the elite players who consistently deliver top-tier performances week-in, week-out. In 2026, only 31 players across the competition earned this distinction, highlighting the scarcity of truly exceptional talent. These players are defined by their ability to perform at an elite level over multiple seasons, shaping their clubs’ success and recruitment strategies. For instance, Brisbane’s four A-graders played a pivotal role in their premiership victory, underscoring how such talent can elevate a team to the top. The criteria for being named an A-grader are rigorous: players must demonstrate consistent excellence over at least two consecutive seasons, with factors like club best-and-fairests, All-Australian selections, and performance in high-stakes games all considered. While most A-graders retain their status through consistency, there’s also a provision for breaking the rules if a player delivers an extraordinary season that sets them apart. Adelaide’s Jordan Dawson is a standout example, having won three consecutive best-and-fairests and polling 65 Brownlow votes since joining the club. Brisbane Lions’ Lachie Neale, a dual premiership captain and Brownlow medallist, continues to solidify his reputation as one of the competition’s most reliable match winners. Meanwhile, players like Charlie Cameron and Dayne Zorko remain on the watchlist despite minor hiccups in their otherwise stellar careers. The A-graders list also reflects changes from previous years, with some stars like Sam Walsh and Steven May falling out of favor due to inconsistent performances. New additions include players who have demonstrated exceptional skill and reliability, such as Harris Andrews and Hugh McCluggage. Their inclusion highlights the dynamic nature of the AFL competition and the importance of maintaining peak performance to earn and retain elite status. This year’s A-graders list serves as a valuable tool for fans and analysts to gauge player performance and predict team success. With only 31 players making the cut, the list underscores the rarity of true elite talent in the AFL. For readers interested in the league’s

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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/22/2026