ADELAIDE

James Battersby: A small (177cm) but solidly built player who continues to improve at SANFL level. He uses the ball well and, importantly, knows how to get first use from the inside of contests. Battersby has started finding the consistency that is so crucial in order to take the next step.

Charlie Cameron: Has really excited since being upgraded to the senior list and making his AFL debut in round nine against Collingwood. His defensive pressure, tackling ferocity, speed and agility have been on full show in his four games so far, as have his smarts around goal. Living with Eddie Betts, Cameron has the perfect mentor to hone his skills as a small forward.

Jake Kelly: Nicknamed 'The Bull' at West Lakes, Kelly is well known for his attack on the football and ability to extract it from contests and dish it to outside players. He's been played at half-back in the SANFL and has managed to stop a number of quality forwards already this year. Promising, contested-ball player.

Jack Osborn: The former basketballer has continued to grow his game after being retained at the end of last year. He made his senior SANFL debut last season, rucking for Central District but was struck down earlier this year with a back injury. Has terrific athleticism for a man of 205cm.

Alex Spina: Quite a versatile young player, Spina has been used both in attack and defence this season for the Crows in the SANFL. He shows good decision making skills when in possession and his skills when under pressure have really stood up. Another player benefiting from Adelaide having its own SANFL side.

Summary: With Charlie Cameron already elevated for Nathan van Berlo, who is on the long term injury list, there's no room for another rookie to be upgraded. - Harry Thring

BRISBANE LIONS

Jordon Bourke: Had a big pre-season and was a chance of being elevated following Daniel Rich's injury, but the improvement of Darcy Gardiner may have snuffed out that option. Impressive in one-on-one contests, the key defender still has a bit to work on to play senior footy.

Isaac Conway: First year at the club and has shown he can get plenty of the ball at reserves level. Needs to continue to work on disposal.

Nick Hayes: Inside mid who is consistently in the top handful of Lions at NEAFL level. Similar mould to Jack Redden and Ryan Lester.

Sam Michael: Now in his third year as a rookie, the Lions have to make a call on him at the end of the season. Terrific athlete who can play key post at either end and pinch-hit in the ruck, Michael has been inconsistent and needs a big finish to the year.

Zac O'Brien: Mature-age midfielder who worked his way on to the senior list and has impressed in his first two appearances as a sub. Small in stature, but has a huge work ethic and should see plenty more senior football.

Archie Smith: Surprised many with his rapid progress as a ruckman after taking up the sport a little more than 12 months ago. Coach Justin Leppitsch is a big fan of the basketball convert and it wouldn't surprise to see him elevated to the senior list as cover for the injured Trent West. 

Summary: While Matthew Leuenberger is due to return in the next six or seven weeks, Smith is still the most likely to be elevated. The Lions have just one fit ruckman – Stefan Martin – and giving Smith a taste of the big time with two or three games late in the season is very much on the cards. - Michael Whiting

CARLTON

Ciaran Byrne: Irish former Gaelic footballer who signed a two-year deal as a Category B international rookie in August last year. Has played four senior games in the VFL and two in the development league.
Jaryd Cachia: Was put back on the senior list for the start of the season but is yet to play an AFL game this year. Was the Northern Blues' best player in their VFL clash with Sandringham last weekend.
Blaine Johnson: The high-leaping forward from Western Australia has played eight games in the VFL and has kicked four goals. Was promoted to the senior list when Scotland retired but is yet to make his debut.
Luke Reynolds: The club's first pick in last year's rookie draft has played eight games for the Northern Blues in the VFL and has kicked four goals. Kicked a goal after the siren to give the Blues a win over Frankston in early April.
Heath Scotland: Was elevated back to the senior list for the start of the season before a chronic ankle injury forced him to retire.
Ciaran Sheehan: Trained with the Blues in 2009, alongside Zach Tuohy, then headed home. Was brought to Australia for a second time by Carlton after he was an outstanding performer in last year's International Rules series. Has played eight games for the Northern Blues and was among their best players in a recent VFL clash with Essendon.
Cameron Wood: Plucked from obscurity by his former coach, the ex-Brisbane Lions and Collingwood ruckman played two games in the NAB Cup but hasn't done enough in the VFL to earn promotion to the senior list.
Summary: Whether the Blues promote one of their rookies in the second half of the season will depend on injuries and the fortunes of the team. - Adam McNicol

COLLINGWOOD

Jack Frost: Frost has capitalised on the injuries to Ben Reid and Nathan Brown to become the Magpies' first-choice key defender, after being upgraded to the senior list on the eve of the season. Frost has grown in stature over the year, holding his own against Lance Franklin, Jack Riewoldt and Drew Petrie among others. He has earned plaudits for his competitiveness in one-on-one battles, and his aggressive attack on the ball and man.

Corey Gault: Gault's status is listed as indefinite on Collingwood's injury list. The 21-year-old has been cruelled by injury in his three years at the club, his latest ailment coming courtesy of a broken collarbone. The Pies love his attitude and all he needs now is a slice of luck.

Ben Hudson: Collingwood's nominated rookie at the start of this season is yet to play a senior game. But his impact in teaching Brodie Grundy and Jarrod Witts the ruck craft has been profound. Hudson's leadership at VFL level has not gone unnoticed, and he is solid insurance if one of the Pies' young ruckmen goes down with injury.

Kyle Martin: There is little doubt Martin would be upgraded, if Collingwood could afford him a place on its senior list. The 23-year-old midfielder has dominated at VFL level this season, averaging 24 disposals and two goals a game. His true value lies with the way he hits the scoreboard, his standout game coming against Essendon in April when he kicked six goals and gathered 30 disposals. 

Caolan Mooney: The line-breaking Irishman has had a change of role this season, swung into the backline to learn how to be accountable to an opponent. He has adapted quite well to the shift, although he hasn't set the world on fire in any games this year.

Peter Yagmoor: Yagmoor has continued his strong development at VFL level. His kicking is his main strength and he has managed a better blend between attack and defence this year. Has often been forced to play above his height in games this year, which has impressed the coaching staff.

Summary: With Matthew Scharenberg soon to be returned to the senior squad from the long-term injury list, Frost is likely to become the Magpies' nominated rookie and Hudson returned to the rookie list. If a Magpie player goes down with a long-term injury, Martin is the most likely ready-made replacement. All he needs is his opportunity. - Ben Guthrie

Nathan Buckley chats with emerging key defender Jack Frost earlier this year. Picture: AFL Media

ESSENDON

Patrick Ambrose: Drafted from the Victorian amateur league, Ambrose has been a success story. Started the year in the senior side and had a breakout game against Hawthorn in round two with three goals. The athletic tall forward has filled the hole left by Stewart Crameri by running up and down the ground and competing for marks, and has played six AFL games between a quad injury.

Cory Dell'Olio: Stepped in for his first game of the season last weekend against Greater Western Sydney having been elevated to the senior list. Dell'Olio has played 12 games over the past three seasons and kicked a goal in all but two games. Has found it hard to stay in the side, however, with others ahead in the small forward pecking order. 

Johnny Rayner: Into his first season at Essendon after being recruited as a category B rookie. The former national running champion accepted a one-year contract with the Bombers, but does have a football background having played for the Western Jets several years ago at TAC Cup level. Still developing at the level.  

Ariel Steinberg: Into his fourth year at the club and has still not broken through for a senior game. Was shaping as a forward option but has been used in defence at times at VFL level. Hasn't found his niche at the club despite having some talent as a versatile third tall.

Fraser Thurlow: Was overlooked for a senior opportunity when the Bombers were without a ruckman earlier in the year, but he is seen as a developing options. As a 21-year-old he has some experience on his side, but will need to continue to have a presence around the ground and work on having more influence there to complement his ruck work. 

Summary: Essendon last week dropped Nick Kommer and Will Hams to its long-term injury list, and only promoted Dell'Olio, leaving one spot free. Of the remaining rookies, Steinberg is best placed to get a chance in the second half of the season. - Callum Twomey

FREMANTLE

Jacob Ballard: Averaging 23 disposals in eight games for Peel Thunder, Ballard is a consistent ball winner in the midfield at WAFL level. Will need to really impress in the second half of the year for an upgrade.

Sam Menegola: Had a huge pre-season after being sidelined for most of 2013 with a knee injury. But has only managed five WAFL games so far this year. The club has been patient with his injury issues but his chances of an upgrade are unlikely.

Craig Moller: Made a surprise AFL debut in round 23 last year but has been bouncing between WAFL seniors and reserves this year. He is a long-term ruck project.

Tom Vandeleur: Developing key defender who has played five WAFL senior games and four reserves game. The Dockers will be prepared to invest time in him.

Michael Wood: Medium-sized forward who will need time on the rookie list to develop his body. Has played only three senior WAFL games for two goals. Played four in the WAFL reserves. - Alex Malcolm

Summary: Fremantle has no room to upgrade any rookies this season with a senior list of 40 players and no players on the long-term injury list. - Alex Malcolm

GEELONG

Zac Bates: The small and skilful defender was the Cats' last pick in the most recent rookie draft. Made an early appearance in the VFL before copping a nasty hamstring injury.

Nick Bourke: The dashing wingman has played five VFL games and been named in the best once. Has been held back by a couple of injury problems.

Mark Blicavs: The mobile big man spent all of last season in the AFL side, but had to return to the rookie list over the summer. Was promoted back to the senior list at the start of this season, in place of Nathan Vardy, and has played every game so far.

Michael Luxford: Former basketballer who joined the Cats via the alternative talent pathway. Has played five VFL games, kicking five goals, including two on debut. Currently battling a leg injury.

Jackson Sheringham: The speedy little man was upgraded to the senior list, in place of Allen Christensen, prior to round one and has played seven AFL games, averaging nine disposals and two marks. Looks a fraction out of his depth at the highest level, but is highly regarded at the club.

James Toohey: The key position prospect has been solid in the VFL, playing six games and kicking three goals.

Summary: With players like Allen Christensen and Josh Caddy now back to full fitness, the Cats won't be promoting another rookie unless they get an extraordinary rash of injuries in the second half of the season. - Adam McNicol

From steeplechaser to ruckman, to key defender - Mark Blicavs' rise has been swift. Picture: AFL Media

GOLD COAST

Andrew Boston: After a stellar pre-season, was all-but guaranteed promotion to prior to round one. However, Boston ruptured the ligaments in his ankle and has only just resumed jogging. The half-forward has clean skills and a big future at the Suns.

Jarred Ellis: Had some pre-season niggles and struggled to make a big impact at reserves level. Only his first year though and has plenty of time to improve.

Louis Herbert: Small forward who has shown some exciting glimpses in the NEAFL. Has been in-and-out of games, but with a weak Suns reserves team on the wrong end of some hidings, it's made his job more difficult.

Josh Hall: Third season at the club and the Suns need to make a decision on the immediate future of the former high jumper. Had progressed nicely as a key forward, and played five senior games, but had his year stifled by shoulder surgery and will not return to the field.

Leigh Osborne: Came as a mature-aged rebounding defender but has struggled to consistently impact in his two seasons. Solid footballer who can do a job, but hard to see where he fits in long-term with the likes of Kade Kolodjashnij and Sean Lemmens playing similar roles. - Michael Whiting

Summary: At the moment the Suns have no long-term injuries and cannot elevate anyone. Tom Nicholls (knee), Dan Gorringe (Achilles) and Jack Martin (shoulder) are all expected to return in the next eight weeks. - Michael Whiting

GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY

Sam Schulz: Having played one senior game in 2012, Schulz was delisted at the end of last season, before being handed another opportunity via the rookie draft. Shoulder surgery then kept him sidelined for the early part of this season, but he has returned and had some decent moments in the reserves.

Summary: The Giants only have the one rookie in Schulz and have the ability to elevate him to the senior list if required. - James Dampney

HAWTHORN

Kurt Heatherley: The athletic New Zealander has been in good form playing as a medium-sized defender for Box Hill. He joined the Hawks as an International Scholarship holder in 2009 and impressed in this year's NAB Challenge. Was talked about as a potential replacement for the long-term injured Brendan Whitecross.

Ben Ross: The 2012 Liston Trophy winner seems to have shrugged off the injury worries that plagued his four seasons at North Melbourne and is pushing his case for the next elevation. The skillful midfielder has been among Box Hill's best in three of the past four games.

Shem-Kalvan Tatupu: Like his compatriot Heatherly, the 197cm key forward is a Category B rookie. Has shown potential playing in Box Hill's development team.

Derick Wanganeen: Upgraded at the start of the season after Brendan Whitecross was placed on the long-term injury list. The silky half-back flanker made his debut in round one after three years on the rookie list and is capable of brilliant passages of play, but hasn't shown enough consistency at VFL level to earn a second match.

Zac Webster: The medium-sized forward attacks the ball hard and has shown glimpses of his potential for Box Hill after being drafted from Tasmania last year. Hawks seem willing to be patient with the 18-year-old.

Dallas Willsmore: The hard-running 19-year-old started the year in the VFL development league but has played the past two games in the senior side. Has a booming kick and at 191cm is another young forward who will take time to develop.

Summary: The Hawks have not upgraded a rookie since Jed Anderson was placed on the long-term injury list, but Ben Ross would be an ideal replacement and would be vying with Heatherley as the most likely next elevation. – Travis King

Kurt Heatherley and Shem-Kalvan Tatupu are continuing their development at Box Hill. Picture: AFL Media

MELBOURNE

Neville Jetta: Delisted at the end of last season, Jetta was re-drafted by the Demons as a rookie and ultimately upgraded for the injured Jack Trengove ahead of the round five clash against Gold Coast. Jetta has been a revelation in defence for the Demons, trusted with some key jobs on some of the competition's most dangerous small forwards. His best effort came in round seven when he held Crow Eddie Betts to just eight touches and no goals. The 24-year-old's confidence to go for his marks is something that separates him from other negating small defenders in the competition.

Alex Georgiou: The ankle injury to Colin Garland gave Georgiou the chance to earn a senior berth and he made the most of it while it lasted. The mature-age Norwood product was upgraded at the start of the season for Mitch Clark and then for Jesse Hogan after Clark's retirement. Playing the first seven games of the season, the 24-year-old was tasked with minding some of the competition's most dangerous forwards which he did reasonably well. Back in the VFL, his challenge is to contribute more offensively to the team.

James Harmes: The young Demon's season has been adversely affected by a punctured lung, which forced him to miss two games. The 18-year-old started his year in the Casey Scorpions' development league side, but is back in the VFL proper now. Harmes has plenty of learning to do, but his ability to take the game on is one of his strong suits.

Max King: After impressing in the NAB Challenge games, King returned to the VFL to further develop his ruck craft. Spent time bouncing between the VFL reserves and the VFL seniors, before a significant leg injury cut him down. Still two to three weeks from a return.

Summary: With Jetta and Georgiou already upgraded from the rookie list, the Demons have no plans to add another player to the senior list. The two youngsters have shown some promise but will need a couple of years of development before being exposed to senior football. - Ben Guthrie

NORTH MELBOURNE

Tim McGennis: The hard-running midfielder was a surprise packet in the VFL last season and continues to excel. Has been in Werribee's best in five of the Tigers' eight games this year. McGennis came to North in 2013 and has impressed with his aerobic ability.

Joel Tippett: Was elevated to the senior list for Tom Curren in March and played four games before being cruelled by a torn pectoral against Geelong in round 10. The 25-year-old key defender faces a battle to play again this season.

Kayne Turner: North's final pick in last year's rookie draft, Turner has quickly found his feet at VFL level. The former Murray Bushranger has speed, a competitive desire and the ability to play forward or back. Only 67kg at the start of the year, he needs to bulk up in the off-season.

Eric Wallace: In the final year of his two-year deal, the international rookie from North Carolina has played eight VFL games as a ruck/forward for North Ballarat and been named in the best once.

Max Warren: Now in his third and final season as a rookie, Warren needs a big season to prove his value at Arden Street. The small defender has been in North Ballarat's best in the past two games and will hope to build on that form in the second half of the year.

Summary: No rookie was promoted after Tippett's pectoral injury but Tim McGennis would be the clear frontrunner for any elevation. – Travis King

Until injuring his pectoral muscle, Joel Tippett was impressing in North's backline. Picture: AFL Media

PORT ADELAIDE

Daniel Flynn: The Irishman returned home for several weeks due to family reasons, but has returned with a refreshed vigour for his new game. Flynn possesses incredible speed and power for a 190cm, 93kg defender and his performances in the SANFL – particularly his ball use and reading of the game – are improving noticeably.

Sam Gray: Just a natural footballer and a player who has reached the AFL the hard way, it's no surprise coach Ken Hinkley is a huge fan of the way Gray plays. He was elevated early in the season to make his AFL debut and looked very capable at the elite level. His footy smarts translated seamlessly, but just needs to keep working on his endurance.

Kane Mitchell: Elevated to the senior list again this year, Mitchell's freakish running ability means he's a real weapon when firing. He dominated SANFL football earlier this season and has consistently performed for the Power since round eight, averaging seven more disposals, three more marks and nearly four more tackles a game than last year.

Brent Renouf: The 2008 premiership player managed one game against Fremantle in round eight before again finding himself in the SANFL. That's when disaster struck, injuring his patella tendon in a ruck contest which ended his season. Having battled a knee issue last year, Renouf just hadn't been able to find the consistency in his game and will focus on getting himself fit for pre-season. 

Sam Russell: The defender suffered an injury-interrupted pre-season before requiring surgery on his hamstring. He's fit now though and will try to build form in the SANFL towards the end of the year.

Summary:  Port cannot upgrade any more rookies to its senior list, with Mitchell and Gray having already replaced Sam Colquhoun and Jarrad Redden, who are on the club's long term injury list. - Harry Thring

RICHMOND

Todd Banfield: Like Matt Thomas and Anthony Miles, was given another chance in last year's NAB AFL Rookie Draft after falling away at the Brisbane Lions. Has played regular football in the VFL – eight games in total – but hasn't really taken the world by storm and has been solid without starring. Has been playing in a variety of roles and most recently started forward before being sent down back. 

Ben Darrou: The developing key defender in his third year at the club has been in good form recently. Has played eight VFL games this season at full back and at times in the forward line. Has been going well in a key defensive role and been winning solid contests while showing development in his defensive pressure. 

Anthony Miles: Got his senior chance in round 12 after being upgraded for Jake King in late May. The former Greater Western Sydney midfielder looked good on debut in the yellow and black, and with 19 touches and eight clearances was one of a few highlights in the game where the Tigers were run over by North Melbourne. Before his AFL debut, Miles had performed well across his eight VFL games, including back-to-back best on ground performances in late April/early May.

Orren Stephenson: Was upgraded as a nominated rookie before the season with Ivan Maric's pre-season ankle injury stalling his start to the year. Played just the one game in round three with Ben Griffiths and Ty Vickery the combination usually paired with Shaun Hampson. Has played seven VFL games – listed in the best three times - and remains as solid back up in case of a big man disaster. Was best on ground against Essendon in the VFL's lead up to 'Dreamtime at the 'G' and won the Sir Doug Nicholls best player award for his efforts. 

Matt Thomas: Was the second of the pre-season nominated rookies after being recruited from Port Adelaide in last year's NAB AFL Rookie Draft. Put in an impressive pre-season, culminating in a strong showing in the Tigers' practice match against Essendon, and played in round one against Gold Coast. Held his spot until after round five before a knee injury cost him three games. Put in a good game in the VFL and has been back in the seniors since round 10 but will now miss a week for rough conduct against Brent Harvey. 

Cadeyn Williams: Had shoulder surgery over the pre-season and didn't come back until Christmas and then didn't play until round five in the VFL. The second-year rookie, who has suffered serious shoulder injuries for two consecutive years, played his best game for the year against Essendon recently with one goal and 16 disposals, plus several shots on goal while holding down a tagging role. Has now played four games and is building his form. 

Summary: The Tigers upgraded Miles for King (toe) ahead of round 11, with the small forward already on the long-term injury list. With King scheduled for a return in 4-6 weeks, David Astbury (knee) could be added to the list in the second half of the season to allow Miles to remain eligible for senior selection. If they were to choose another, Cadeyn Williams is building his form but has only played four games this year or they could choose to have a look at Ben Darrou at senior level in his third season.  - Jennifer Phelan

Richmond has received excellent service from Matt Thomas since he crossed from Port. Picture: AFL Media

ST KILDA

Jason Holmes: On a two-year international rookie contract, the US-born college basketballer is showing improvement, particularly with his ruck work. The challenge for Holmes is to start winning possessions around the ground. In his most recent performance he racked up 40 hit-outs but just three possessions, summing up his progress.

Darren Minchington: In his third season as a rookie, the 20-year-old has worked hard at VFL level but hasn't been able to push into the senior team. The Saints have been happy with his work-rate, which has lifted after he played two AFL games last season. His challenge in the second half of the season is to generate more possessions after averaging 12.6 touches in eight games with Sandringham.                                                        

Cameron Shenton: After an outstanding start to the season in the VFL, the 23-year-old was promoted to the senior list and he has grasped his opportunity with both hands. The defender has impressed with his dash and long kicking, also earning a reputation as a hard-nosed player who can win his own ball. He has played the last four games at senior level and will take some shifting in the Saints' 22.

Eli Templeton: A revelation in the first five matches, Templeton's season came to an end in New Zealand when he suffered a fractured arm in the Anzac Day clash against the Brisbane Lions. The lightly-framed 18-year-old did his best work outside the packs streaming into the forward line. He was one of the Saints' best ball-users going inside 50 and shapes as an exciting young prospect.

Maverick Weller: The former Gold Coast midfielder started the season in the VFL as a run-with player but demanded senior selection after racking up 39 possessions against North Ballarat while also tagging Liam Anthony. He has played the last five matches at AFL level and his strength in the midfield means he is likely to stay in favour.   

Giovanni Mountain-Silbery: Remains "incredibly raw" after signing with the club as an international scholarship player in February. The Kiwi recruit, who remains in New Zealand, played his first game of Australian football in the lead up to the Anzac Day match in Wellington. At 196cm and 96kg, he has the physical attributes St Kilda is looking for and the club will now set about teaching him the game. Identified as a key forward/ruckman, he will visit the club in July.

Joe Baker-Thomas: The New Zealand recruit was signed on an international scholarship 13 months ago and has played a mix of VFL development football and TAC Cup with the Sandringham Dragons. He is being groomed as a tall defender where he can use his athleticism and height to advantage. The 18-year-old is working hard to improve his game understanding and is likely to be pushed forward in the second half of the season. 

Summary: It is unlikely the Saints will elevate any more rookies this season. Cameron Shenton was elevated for injured defender Sam Gilbert (foot), while Weller got his opportunity as a replacement for Nathan Wright (leg). With Wright due to return in two weeks, it is likely the Saints will eventually use their mid-season elevation to keep Weller on the senior list when Wright returns. - Nathan Schmook

SYDNEY SWANS

Shane Biggs: Blossoming to make three senior appearances last year, including two finals, illness then interrupted his pre-season and he currently finds himself back in the queue hoping for another taste of the top level.

Jake Lloyd: Elevated to the senior list ahead of the round five match against Fremantle, the midfielder made his debut that week and has since strung seven straight games together. Impressively, all of them have been victories.

Patrick Mitchell: An American with a basketball background, Mitchell is the epitome of a project player. But he is developing in the ruck and registers the odd NEAFL goal with his unconventional kicking action.

Sam Naismith: Nominated by coach John Longmire as a player to watch in 2014, the 21-year-old ruck prospect started the season brightly in the reserves, but injuries remain his biggest issue to date.

Lloyd Perris: It has been an inconsistent first season for the former Swans' Academy member, enjoying some big possession games in the seconds and also going missing as he adjusts to the step-up in class.

Xavier Richards: Given one taste of senior football as a substitute against Carlton last year, the defender has added some bulk to his frame and been a solid NEAFL performer to date.

Daniel Robinson: Another of the Swans' promising young midfielders, Robinson has put in some outstanding displays in the reserves in 2014 and is considered close to first-team action if an opportunity arises.

Summary: The Swans are able to elevate a rookie if required, with Robinson probably the most likely, ahead of Biggs and Richards. But at this stage they have no intention of doing so and only would on a needs basis, such as in the case of an injury. - James Dampney

Jake Lloyd has immediately impressed as part of the Swans' midfield. Picture: AFL Media

WEST COAST

Will Maginness: Recruited from the TAC Cup, Maginness is a project player in the midfield. He's played only four senior WAFL matches this season, playing the rest of the year in the WAFL reserves. He had 23 touches last week in the WAFL seniors last week.

Murray Newman: Currently serving a one-year jail term after being found guilty of grievous bodily harm. He was sentenced on March 7 and is eligible for parole in September. The club has committed to supporting him. Whether he is at the club next year is uncertain.

Rowen Powell: Powell doesn't turn 19 until September and he is being eased into his AFL career. Has had some body issues. Being groomed for a defensive post, he has played just six WAFL reserves matches. Appears a long way off AFL football at the moment.

Callum Sinclair: Was elevated off the rookie list to replace the injured Beau Waters and played the first three rounds as part of the Eagles' three-man ruck rotation. But Scott Lycett went past him and then Nic Naitanui's return to fitness meant West Coast only required two ruckmen. Sinclair bagged six goals in the WAFL last week. Is worthy of an upgrade next year but Dean Cox's future will dictate his prospects.

Summary: West Coast has already upgraded Sinclair to the senior list after placing Beau Waters on the long-term injury list. The Eagles cannot elevate anyone else. - Alex Malcolm

Callum Sinclair is pushing for promotion but is behind two pretty decent ruckmen. Picture: AFL Media

WESTERN BULLDOGS

Mark Austin: It looms as a make or break year for the former Blue and third-year rookie, with the Bulldogs needing to upgrade him to the senior list if they wish to retain the 25-year-old. Has been good key defensive cover but is yet play senior footy so far in 2014.

Alex Greenwood: In the same boat as Austin – the inside midfielder really needs a big finish to the year. The 20-year-old is yet to make his senior debut but has been solid in the VFL.

Lin Jong: Highly rated internally, the 21-year-old has been predominately used as a tagger during his nine career games. The third-year rookie is likely to be upgraded at season's end.

Jack Redpath: Another third-year rookie, the hulking key forward has impressed in the VFL this year. Brendan McCartney says his elevation to the senior list is on the cards. 

Summary: The Bulldogs can upgrade someone under the nominated rookie rule but can also free up a spot by placing Clay Smith on the long-term injury list. The midfielder is expected to miss at least another two months with a shoulder injury. Redpath is the man likely to be elevated if the Dogs go down this track. - Ryan Davidson