No.5 in the AFL players' top 50, brought to you by Bailey, has recently emerged as one of competition’s genuine stars.

5. Jobe Watson
Essendon
Midfielder
AFL Player Rating: 5
Debut: 2003
Games: 176

One of the hardest runners in the game, Watson simply keeps on pushing when others are falling away.

Enjoyed a terrific 2013 season, despite the distractions of the club’s supplements scandal, leading the Bombers admirably on and off the ground. 

Watson averaged 30 disposals in the opening nine rounds and kicked 12 goals, carrying on with that form before breaking his collarbone in round 15 against Port Adelaide.

He missed three weeks but on return, continued to gather important disposals and dominate clearances. Underlined his status as one of the club’s elite and was rewarded with his second All Australian selection and was runner-up in Essendon’s best and fairest. 

Jobe Watson has established himself as a genuine star in recent seasons. Picture: AFL Media





Strengths
Having built his game on the simple foundation of winning his own possessions, Watson has become so much more. Not only is he adept at stoppages, he has great body strength, quick hands that pinpoint handballs long and short, and the vision to spot up teammates in better positions.

Watson sees play unfold before most and makes things happen. He is a threat near goal and a natural, respected leader.

Weakness
It used to be his kicking but that is not the case any more after years of hard work made him a reliable ball user. 

He's not quick and not a great overhead mark, but he’s smart enough to play to his strengths.

What the players said
"His ability to read the opposition and how the game unfolds makes him stand out … your ultimate professional.” - Dustin Fletcher

"He's not renowned for doing the flashy things but I certainly respect him for doing the little things.” - Daniel Jackson

"Quite demanding of his teammates … has a lot of presence on the field." - Sam Mitchell

"Not only has his footy gone to a new level, but he's dragged a lot of players with him.” - Trent Cotchin

Who's next? Check out the rest of the AFL Players Top 50 as they are revealed