Mike Sheahan's top 50 countdown in the Herald Sun always creates plenty of discussion and this year is no exception.

The chief football writer has published the first part of his list on Wednesday with players ranked 30-50, and two North Melbourne stars featured in Daniel Wells and Drew Petrie.

Wells, who's tipped to figure prominently in tonight's Syd Barker Medal count came in at 34, while Petrie was not far away at number 35.

Coming in at number 43 before the season started, Andrew Swallow could be for a top 30 finish after another fantastic season.