Midfield coach Robert Harvey has had a profound effect on Pendlebury, who polled 21 Brownlow votes, was named an All-Australian for the fourth straight year and won his second Copeland Trophy.
Pendlebury’s leadership skills were rewarded when he was named club captain before the start of the 2014 season.
On his way to No.1? His peers think Scott Pendlebury could become the game's best. Picture: AFL Media
Strengths
A true team man, he covers territory at both ends of the ground, working back into defence to support defenders and pushing forward to kick goals.
He rarely misses kickable goals and performs in big games.
Weaknesses
Still an inexperienced leader, the Collingwood captain will continue to refine his communication skills. He is one-sided to some extent but the left-footer never gets caught on his non-preferred side.
There are few weaknesses in his game, however, and having just turned 26, he is about to enter the prime years of his career.
What the players said
"When his team needs him most, that's when he comes to the fore ... and he's done it time and time again.” - Corey Enright
"A guy that can turn the game at any stage ... he's elite.” - Joel Selwood
Who's next? Check out the rest of the AFL Players Top 50 as they are revealed