No.6 in the AFL Players' Top 50, brought to you by Bailey, went close to winning a second Brownlow Medal last season and is known as one of the hardest-working players in the game.
6. Dane Swan
Collingwood
Midfielder
Official AFL Player Rating: 13
Debut: 2003
Games: 222
Veteran Swan led the AFL in disposals last season and his 31.2 average tied with Gary Ablett for the highest in the competition. It was the fifth straight year Swan averaged more than 30 possessions a game. He remains prolific on Brownlow Medal night and his tally of 26 in 2013 was just two behind the winner, Ablett.
Swan's work rate continues to amaze, but he can also sneak forward and presents well as a lead-up forward. Look for more of that this year because, as Collingwood’s most rotated player, he might be required to spend more time resting up forward than on the bench.
Dane Swan is equally dangerous in the midfield and resting in the forward line. Picture: AFL Media
Strengths
Finds the ball with ease, has underrated speed, difficult to budge in one-on-one contests, strong over the ball when it’s up for grabs, regularly kicks goals and is a strong link-up player.
Weaknesses
Is erratic by foot at times, can lack defensive accountability and is prone to turning the ball over.
What the players say
"People don't realise how quick he is … a genuine champion of the game." - Jimmy Bartel
"Old school footballer … his strength is incredible for a midfielder." - Jonathan Brown
"More often than not, when he's got the ball in his hands it leads to Collingwood scoring." - Nathan Jones
