WHEN you finish bottom of the table, there's only one direction to go.

Not only do AFL players believe Brisbane will improve in 2018, they believe last season's wooden spooners will be the year's biggest improvers.

It's tight though, with 16 percent surveyed in AFL.com.au's annual Players' Top 50 poll opting for the Lions, narrowly ahead of Essendon and Port Adelaide.

Which club will make the most improvement in 2018?

It's hard to see the Lions doing anything but improving this season.

Under new coach Chris Fagan, they developed markedly in 2017, particularly as the season wore on.

After losing nine straight matches in the first half of the year, the Lions won four of their final 12 matches and could have pinched a couple more.

That's the type of form that can be expected for the entire year.

• Lions fans' season preview: 50 goals for Eric and no spoon, please

Luke Hodge comes into the team, and although his best playing days are likely behind him, his leadership will fast-track the development of a young backline.

Throw in the continued improvement of players like Eric Hipwood, Harris Andrews, Hugh McCluggage, Alex Witherden and Jarrod Berry, the addition of Charlie Cameron and the return of Allen Christensen from a year out with injury, and all the pieces are there for improvement.

Just how right will the players be?

Read more from the 2018 Players' Top 50

• Which teams are set for a fall?

• 50-41: The man who must carry the Suns

• 40-31: Why McGovern is a million-a-year defender

• 30-21: From carefree mid to Giant killer

• Players tip 2018's top five breakout stars