The Crows are expected to poll 62 votes overall, shared among 16 players. Bryce Gibbs is tipped to be the leading contender with 11, ahead of Matt Crouch (10) and Rory Laird (eight). Traditional vote-getter Rory Sloane missed a large chunk of the season with a foot injury.

Best chance: Bryce Gibbs
The experienced midfielder had a consistent first season with the Crows after crossing from Carlton at the end of last year. Gibbs should poll well in the first half of the season. His form – like that of the team – tailed off in the middle part of the season before turning in a big performance in the round 20 Showdown win against Port Adelaide. Gibbs played every game this season, averaging 25.9 disposals and 5.4 tackles per game. 

MILESTONE MAN: Gibbs chalks up 250

Fast starter: Bryce Gibbs
Gibbs made a strong first impression at his new club, having 35 disposals and eight inside 50s in the round one loss to Essendon, followed by 26 touches and 10 tackles in the round three win over St Kilda. He should poll five votes in the first three rounds. 

One-vote wonder: Eddie Betts
It was a quiet season by the veteran small forward's lofty standards, but outstanding four-goal performance in a low-scoring 37-point win against the Western Bulldogs in round nine should have caught the attention of the umpires.