The New Era of Ruck Dominance in the AFL
After a decade of dominance by Melbourne captain Max Gawn as the best ruck in the league, 2026 has seen a four-horse race emerge as a quartet of high-quality rucks vie for the number one mantle. Gawn, who has eight All-Australian blazers since 2016, still holds on to the crown for now, but his former apprentice Luke Jackson is making a strong claim for the title.
The Fremantle star has been electric in 2026, producing match-winning performances for the Dockers both in his ruck craft and through his physicality and determination around the ground. His smother against Hawthorn last weekend was a highlight. Jackson, who has been nominated for the All-Australian squad twice before, is averaging 19.4 disposals, 5.2 clearances, 8.8 hit outs to advantage and just under a goal a game this season.
However, his old master Max hasn’t dropped off in any capacity in his 17th year in the league. Gawn is averaging 21.3 disposals, 9.6 hit outs to advantage and 6.3 clearances, while the addition of Max Heath to the Dees’ ruck line-up has allowed Gawn to drift forward and kick seven goals across nine games.
While those two appear set to battle it out for top spot, Gawn’s former teammate and two-time All-Australian Brodie Grundy is arguably having his best season yet. Grundy has found his home in Sydney and his ruck craft is the best in the game as he averages an incredible 13.4 hit outs to advantage a match. Add to the mix his ability to cover the ground and collect the ball (averaging 21 disposals and more than six clearances a game), and Grundy has been the best-performed ruck across the opening 10 rounds.
Friday night’s game against Collingwood saw Grundy be the difference maker. The Swans secured a come-from-behind victory by six points, with 32-year-old Grundy dominating after young Magpies ruck Oscar Steene went down injured. Grundy finished the game with 34 disposals, 46 hit outs, 18 hit outs to advantage, one goal and 12 clearances as he monstered the Magpies in a wet slog at the SCG.
North Melbourne fans at this point would have white knuckles as their anger at Tristan Xerri being overlooked in this debate – rightly – takes over. Xerri remains underrated in the league, likely due to the Roos’ struggles at the bottom end of the ladder across the past six seasons. But as North Melbourne rises the ladder and the Roos’ performances continue to impress, the impact of Xerri is shining through.
The bullocking 27-year-old has been dominant this season with his physicality at the forefront every time he steps over the white line. Xerri has averaged 22 disposals, 8.8 clearances and 7.3 hit outs to advantage in his six games this season and is comfortably sitting within the league’s quartet of star big men.
Key Players in the Ruck Battle
- Max Gawn: Despite being in his 17th season, Gawn continues to perform at a high level, averaging 21.3 disposals, 9.6 hit outs to advantage, and 6.3 clearances.
- Luke Jackson: A rising star with impressive stats including 19.4 disposals, 5.2 clearances, and 8.8 hit outs to advantage per game.
- Brodie Grundy: Having found his footing in Sydney, Grundy’s performance has been exceptional, averaging 13.4 hit outs to advantage and 21 disposals per game.
- Tristan Xerri: Underrated but highly impactful, Xerri’s physicality and consistency have made him a key player for North Melbourne.
Notable Performances
- Luke Jackson delivered a standout performance against Hawthorn, showcasing his skills with a memorable smother.
- Brodie Grundy was instrumental in the Swans’ win against Collingwood, with a record-breaking performance that included 34 disposals and 46 hit outs.
- Tristan Xerri has been a consistent performer for North Melbourne, contributing significantly despite the team’s challenges.
Future Outlook
As the season progresses, the competition among these four rucks will only intensify. Each player brings unique strengths to the table, ensuring that the battle for the top ruck position remains exciting and unpredictable. Fans can expect more thrilling performances from these elite athletes as they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the ruck contest.
