AFL.com.au presented the AFL players with a simple challenge: rank the best in the game. The votes are in. As the 2014 season unfolds we'll count down the top 50 players in the land - as rated by those who go to battle with them every week.

4. Patrick Dangerfield
Adelaide
Midfielder
AFL Player Rating: 4
Debut: 2008
Games: 112

One of the most valuable players in the competition, Dangerfield enjoyed a sensational 2013 season, earning All Australian selection for the second straight year and finishing third in Adelaide’s best and fairest award. He finished the year second at the club for kicks (302) and inside 50s (102) and easily led the way for hard-ball gets (118). He also managed 48 hit-outs as the third man up.

Strengths
His incredible strength and speed have helped Dangerfield establish himself as one of the most explosive players in the competition. A genuine game-changer, he can control the midfield or go forward and kick goals when needed.

Weaknesses
Very difficult to pinpoint any real deficiencies in the 23-year-old's well-rounded game, but he can occasionally waste possession when at full pace.

What the players said
"His speed is what stands out for me, for a big guy … he's similar to, and probably going to be just as good as, Mark Ricciuto.” - Nic Naitanui

"When the game's close you look at him and you can just see that he wants to be the guy to pick everyone up and win the game for you.” - Rory Sloane

View the full top 50 as voted by the players