The best vet: Scott Thompson (32) Any suggestion of retirement has been smashed back at his doubters. Thompson has been one of the club's best players in each of his three games this year and leads the competition for contested possessions and clearances per game. Hamstring issues hampered the back end of his 2014 campaign and held him out until round three, but if the form he's shown since holds up another contract might be on the horizon.
On the wane: James Podsiadly (33) Fell down the pecking order at West Lakes behind Josh Jenkins in attack and Kyle Hartigan in defence but would have likely played last week if he hadn't suffered a fractured back in the SANFL a few weeks ago. He's set for another fortnight on the sidelines and although 2015 looks certain to be J-Pod's last year in the AFL, he'll likely add to his games tally before the year's end.
The others: Defender Brent Reilly (31) is the club's only other player over 30 and after a serious head injury earlier this year his career appears over. Reilly fell out of the side's best 22 last year and needed a big 2015 season to earn a new playing contract. Unfortunately a freak training accident saw the 203-gamer fracture his skull in January and his health has been his – and the club's – only concern since. – Harry Thring
The best vet: Jed Adcock (29) He might have lost the captaincy to Tom Rockliff during the pre-season, but Adcock is one of the few Lions that can hold his head high through the first five weeks. He's not setting the world on fire, but the man who led the club the past two years has not spat the dummy, and is instead maintaining his high standards and continuing to be an unofficial leader. Looks like he still has a few years left in him.
On the wane: Matt Maguire (30) For a man who has done a remarkable – and often under-rated – job to prolong his career this far, the game looks to be catching up with him. Maguire has played just one senior game this season and looked a step off the pace, before returning to the NEAFL where he was concussed and missed last week's match. It's difficult to see him getting more games this year, but Maguire has proven people wrong before.
The others: After an absolute nightmare run of injuries the past five years, luckless swingman Brent Staker (30) also looks to be running out of time. He got two games before another hamstring injury sidelined him, and after the club tentatively gave him a two-year deal at the end of 2013, has an uphill battle to extend his career. Reliable fullback Daniel Merrett (30) also has a hamstring problem, but is a crucial component to a young backline when he's fit. - Michael Whiting
The best vet: Chris Judd (31) In his 14th season, the dual Brownlow medallist continues to maintain a high standard and has been among Carlton's best in his four games this season. With the Blues struggling he has carried a heavy load in the midfield, yet is still an inspiration, mentor and role model to developing midfielders such as Rising Star nominee Patrick Cripps. Ideally he would be used more on the outside to improve their running capabilities.
On the wane: Kade Simpson (31) Is as courageous, hard-working and determined as ever but is not having the impact on games he had when he won the best and fairest award in 2013. Playing mainly in the back half, he is winning plenty of the ball but the Blues need more run and carry from him, particularly in the absence of Chris Yarran. Has been under constant pressure and often forced into a hurried kick, but the Blues would love him to show more flair and dare.
The others: Andrew Carrazzo (31) and Michael Jamison (28), who both missed last Friday night's embarrassing loss to Collingwood, have vital roles as run-with midfielder and key defender respectively, although both are more susceptible to injury these days. Andrew Walker (28) is back in the team and provides much-needed dash after recovering from knee surgery during pre-season. Maybe he could be tried again in attack where he had so much success in 2011. Dennis Armfield (28) has returned to the seniors in the past three games after starting the season in the VFL, being used mainly as a defensive forward. – Howard Kotton
The best vet: Dane Swan (31) After limping his way through last season with an assortment of injuries that required post-season surgery, the 2011 Brownlow medallist has shown signs that his very best football is not beyond him, being the pick of many as best-afield in wins over Brisbane Lions and St Kilda. Has averaged 28 disposals (13 contested), four clearances and almost a goal a game in a welcome return to fitness and form.
On the wane: Clinton Young (29) The Pies recruited the Hawks' 2008 premiership star hoping he would provide dash, decision-making and delivery in a wing/half-back role. Found some momentum last year, although he made some uncharacteristic skill errors, but chronic hamstring problems have conspired against him this season, just as they did in his first year (2013) with the club. Will need to overcome these issues and then produce an extended run of form in the VFL before he will be considered. Faces a long, hard road back.
The others: Travis Cloke (28) is another experienced Pie seemingly on the slide, and it's been the case ever since he earned his second All Australian selection in three years in 2013. But the big left-footer still holds the key to the Pies' attack. Fellow premiership player Alan Toovey (28) continues to be one of the club's most reliable soldiers, and the leadership he shows in guiding a young backline often goes unnoticed but is rated highly at his club. The hard-running Sam Dwyer (28) remains a good reinforcement, and is often better than that, enjoying patches where he seemingly has the ball on a string on the wing. – Ben Collins
Dane Swan is still one of Collingwood's major weapons despite getting on in age. Picture: AFL Media
The best vet: Jobe Watson (30 years) The Essendon captain remains the club's best player, despite turning 30 in February. He has enjoyed a strong start to this season and is averaging 29 disposals in the first five games. Bombers teammate Brendon Goddard recently said Watson is in better form than his 2012 Brownlow Medal season. With his bullocking work, quick hands and smart decision-making, Watson has almost become an untaggable player.
On the wane: Jason Winderlich (30) The speedy small forward, who was set to quit at the end of last year, endured an injury-interrupted pre-season and was recently placed on the long-term injury list with a back concern. After retiring, reconsidering and then almost accepting an offer to play for Richmond late last year, Winderlich played on at the Bombers. But the injury has put a major halt on his 2015 campaign.
The others: The Bombers have a number of experienced players in the twilight years, including the recently recruited Paul Chapman (33) and Adam Cooney (29). Brendon Goddard turns 30 later this month but is still in top form and reached his 250th game in round three, while Dustin Fletcher will turn 40 on Thursday but James Hird said the evergreen defender remains in the club's best team. - Callum Twomey
The best vet: Aaron Sandilands (32) The 211cm giant remains a dominant ruckman in the competition despite his age. He was named All Australian for the fourth time last season and finished second in the best and fairest. He is fourth in the AFL for hit-outs this season but is number one among ruckmen for contested marks.
On the wane: Luke McPharlin (33) His early season form would suggest he is far from on the wane but the fragility of his body is well known. The Dockers are managing him very well and he is repaying them with great leadership in defence, but this is surely his last year.
The others: Matthew Pavlich (33) keeps on keeping on after a superb summer and remains a key figure in the Dockers' premiership chances. Michael Johnson (30) and Paul Duffield (30) continue to be pillars of the defence, while Ryan Crowley (31) awaits his fate at an AFL Anti-Doping Tribunal later this month. – Alex Malcolm
The best vet: Tom Lonergan (30). You only need to look at the game Lonergan missed with concussion against North Melbourne in round four to realise his importance to the team. In his return against Richmond at the weekend, the Cats' defensive unit looked far more settled and organised, and Lonergan won his one-on-one battle with Richmond spearhead Jack Riewoldt. Lonergan, who is set to bring up his 150th game against Collingwood on Friday night, is rarely beaten on the last line of defence and his ability to shut down the opposition's most dangerous forward is pivotal to Geelong.
On the wane: Hamish McIntosh (30).A torn tendon in his calf could spell the end for McIntosh, who is almost certainly in the final year of his career. The ruckman has managed just 19 games in his three seasons at Geelong, with an ankle injury sidelining him for his first year at the Cattery in 2013. A knee injury forced him to miss last year's semi-final loss to North Melbourne, after playing 19 games in 2014. Was in good form in the VFL at the start of this season but it is doubtful he will make it back into Geelong's side with Rhys Stanley, Dawson Simpson, Mitch Clark and Mark Blicavs all ahead of him.
The others: Steve Johnson (31) could have easily been placed in the 'on the wane' section, but gets the benefit of the doubt because of his unquestioned body of work. Johnson has been fumbly, has fallen over at critical points in games and was even the sub against the Roos. With Johnson out of form, the loss of Jimmy Bartel (31) to a medial knee complaint has been sorely felt. Andrew Mackie (30) has been limited to two games due to a calf problem, while Mathew Stokes (30) has dealt with an ongoing achilles niggle. James Kelly (31) will be out for the foreseeable future after having surgery on a ruptured testicle. While after slow starts to the season, Corey Enright (33) and Jared Rivers (30) have bounced back and remain key planks in Geelong's defence. – Ben Guthrie
Steve Johnson still shows flashes of brilliance but hasn't enjoyed a strong year so far. Picture: AFL Media
The best vet: Gary Ablett (30) Even with a dodgy shoulder following surgery last August, Ablett is still arguably the best player in the game. He's fitter than ever and once the shoulder is close to 100 per cent, he will no doubt resume his place among the game's elite. Has just signed a three-year extension with the Suns and will be plying his trade until at least the end of 2018.
On the wane: Greg Broughton (28) This is really a rough call. Broughton was terrific for the Suns last year and played the opening two rounds before an Achilles injury stopped his flow. He has now missed a month, and with players like Adam Saad, Sean Lemmens and Kade Kolodjashnij making the most of their time in the seniors, it will become increasingly difficult for Broughton to find his way into the backline once he regains fitness.
The others: Fresh from an All Australian season, free agent recruit Nick Malceski (30) has started poorly for the Suns. He is overcoming a knee injury and will be expected to produce much more when he returns. Michael Rischitelli (29) on the other hand is playing possibly the best football of his career. With his body now back to its best, Rischitelli has been a standout leader in the absence of Ablett, both with his words and actions. Brisbane Lions recruit Andrew Raines (29) was brought in to stiffen up the NEAFL team, but after overcoming an off-season injury, will now be promoted to the senior list. - Michael Whiting
The best vet: Ryan Griffen (29 in July) The former Western Bulldogs captain was the get of last year's trade period. With a midfield stacked full of guns in their early 20s, Griffen's arrival at the Giants has been heaven for the likes of Dylan Shiel, Adam Treloar and Lachie Whitfield. He gets the opposition's tag every week and while he's not the offensive weapon he was at the Dogs, his work at stoppages has been fantastic for the team. Will have heavy attention this season, before his younger teammates take over, which should free him up to cause some major scoreboard damage.
On the wane: Dylan Addison (28 in October) is yet another former Dog. He has been a solid pick up for the Giants, mainly for his work off the field, where his professionalism and leadership have been vital. Played just five games in 2014 and hasn't managed one this season, which is unlikely to change, but is a valuable clubman. Continues to play solid footy in the NEAFL but unlikely to add to his 93 AFL games.
The others: Joel Patfull (30)has been crucial to the Giants' positive start to the season, where hisexperience in defence has helped co-captain Phil Davis immensely. Heath Shaw (30 in November) has also helped shape the GWS backline into one its main strengths, while ruckman Shane Mumford (29 in July) is the barometer of the Giants' midfield. – Adam Curley
The best vet: Jordan Lewis (29) Among the many Hawks veterans, Lewis narrowly wins the 'best vet' category ahead of illustrious company in Sam Mitchell, Shaun Burgoyne and Luke Hodge. Coming off a career-best season in which he won the Peter Crimmins Medal, Lewis has kicked-off 2015 in arguably even better form. The vice-captain leads the Hawks for average kicks (21), handballs (14), disposals (35), clearances (6.2), inside 50s (6.4) and goal assists (1.8), in which he is equal first with Cyril Rioli).
On the wane: David Hale (30) The dual premiership big man continues to battle injury setbacks which hampered his pre-season and is yet to be sighted at AFL level, where Jonathon Ceglar has assumed the No.1 ruck role. If 219 games of bash and crash in the ruck and up forward take their toll and Hale retires at the end of the year, he can hang up the boots with no regrets after playing a pivotal part in Hawthorn's era of success.
The others: Despite being Hawthorn's second oldest player, Sam Mitchell (32) is still rated as one of the game's premier onballers and was targeted for a tag by Port Adelaide in round four. Luke Hodge, 30,collected an equal club record 44 touches in the round three smacking of the Western Bulldogs, while 32-year-old Shaun Burgoyne has been at his classy best running off half-back. Josh Gibson has had to play taller after another injury crisis in defence, but the 31-year-old is showing no signs of slowing down. Star 33-year-old full-back Brian Lake's form was impressive before his knee injury. – Travis King
The best vet: Lynden Dunn (27) Turns 28 next week but is on the Demons' veteran list. The solid defender who has improved with age was named vice-captain at the start of the year. Well respected and passionate about the club, he has not had the best start to the season but is holding down his spot as he attempts to play his own game while directing traffic.
On the wane: Mark Jamar (31) It might seem harsh because he has had an excellent start to the season and is clearly the team's No.1 ruckman but at 31 and in the final year of his contract, he's likely to be a year-to-year proposition. To his credit, Jamar has had a real dip this season and led from the front with his physicality at times. Needs to remain consistent as he continues to regain the faith of those in charge.
The others: Daniel Cross (32) has been an excellent acquisition since crossing from the Western Bulldogs as a delisted free agent at the end of 2013. He is starting to slow a little but he still competes hard and was among the Demons best against Fremantle. Has set a great example to the team's young players on the track. - Peter Ryan
The best vet: Michael Firrito (31) The defender looked shot at the end of 2013 but bounced back well last season and has continued his good form in 2015. With Nathan Grima (back) sidelined until the second half of this season, Firrito's experience and ability to play on smalls and talls like Geelong's Mitch Clark has been invaluable in North's defensive 50. The former rookie leads the Roos in one-percenters (5.6 a game) this season and is equal third for rebound 50s (three a game).
On the wane: Scott McMahon (29 in June). Although one of North's younger veterans, the defender's papers appear to have been stamped. Has played just six senior games since round 11, 2013, forced to bide his time in the VFL with Werribee as Sam Wright, Luke McDonald, Jamie Macmillan, Ben Jacobs and Aaron Mullett have been preferred as medium defenders. McMahon comes out of contract at the end of this season and save for a spate of injuries probably won't play again for the Roos.
The others: Brent Harvey (37 next week) has made a solid start to 2015 in a new role across half-back. Spearhead Drew Petrie (32) has been relatively subdued across the first five rounds, kicking just eight goals, but coach Brad Scott has said he remains a key player for North with his selfless work off the ball and defensive pressure. Former Blue Jarrad Waite (32) has begun his first season at Arden Street impressively (10 goals from four games) even if he continues to struggle for consistency. Daniel Wells (30) has not played since being substituted with an Achilles tendon injury at half-time in North's round two win over the Brisbane Lions. The star playmaker also endured an injury-plagued 2014 raising questions about whether 13 AFL seasons are starting to take a toll on his body. Nick Dal Santo (31) has been far more durable across his career and is confident of returning strongly from recent hamstring surgery. Out-of-contract key defender Nathan Grima (30 in August) has endured a horror run of injury over his career and is unlikely to return from back surgery until the second half of the season. – Nick Bowen
The best vet: Jay Schulz (30) Hell bent to play in a premiership before his time in the AFL is up, Schulz just keeps getting better. He's an absolute master of the set shot, as his 10.1 over the past fortnight reflects. He remains one of the most courageous players in the competition as well as one of its most potent forwards.
On the wane: Kane Cornes (32) The four-time best and fairest is still quite capable of playing very important football for the Power, as his effective job on Rory Sloane proved in the Showdown. But he'll be rested at times this season and has admitted that 2015 would likely be his final season in the AFL. If it is, he'd be missed, but he'd retire as Port's only player to play 300 AFL games for the club – a milestone he's set to achieve in round eight.
The others: Tom Logan (29) The hard-nosed defender was rookie listed late last year after being delisted to play what is largely a mentoring role for the club's youngesters. He's a solid contributor for the SANFL side, but Logan wouldn't be expecting to play AFL footy again. A popular figure at Alberton, Logan's fighting spirit shown throughout his career serves as an example of what's required to make it at the elite level. – Harry Thring
The best vet: Chris Newman (32) As the only veteran on Richmond's list to have played more than one game this season, Newman wins the race by default here. The veteran defender has played four of a possible five matches, but had little impact against Geelong after returning from a back injury. A smart and polished rebounding defender in his prime, the 32-year-old, who considered retiring last year, has been used forward in more recent times.
On the wane: Nathan Foley (29) The midfield speedster has been restricted to two VFL games so far this season because of foot and knee injuries. There's no doubt Foley can still have an impact at AFL level if his body allows, but that is proving a challenge. He is out of contract at the end of the season.
The others: Brett Deledio remains the Tigers' most valuable veteran, but the 28-year-old has been restricted to just one game this season because of a calf injury. He could make a desperately needed return this week. Troy Chaplin (29), Chris Knights (28) and Ivan Maric (29) are not technically veterans but have each been in the system for 10 years or more after starting their careers at other clubs. Maric has been serviceable in the ruck this season, likewise Chaplin in defence. Knights, however, has suffered his third serious injury in three years at the Tigers and will miss the next eight to 10 weeks. – Nathan Schmook
The best vet: Sean Dempster (31) Consistent, reliable and one of the team's best in round five against Essendon. The former Sydney Swan turned 31 in January after years of holding together the Saints' backline because of a cruel run of injuries to the other experienced defenders. Nick Riewoldt would usually be considered in this category but has missed the last three weeks with a calf injury, although he is on the cusp of returning to the field.
On the wane: Sam Gilbert (28) Only because of the horrible luck the defender has had in recent years with his foot, and the fact his return to AFL level has been disrupted by a groin injury in the VFL development league two weeks ago. Hasn't had a full run at a season since 2012 and needs a change in fortune with the left foot fracture that flared up twice last year after an operation, and needed revision surgery at the end of the season.
The others: Riewoldt will continue to be important for the Saints when he gets back, despite his status as the list's second oldest player at 32. Sam Fisher is the oldest (33 in July) but has helped strengthen the backline in all five games so far after three years wrecked by toe and hamstring problems. Leigh Montagna (31) hurt his knee in the pre-season and hasn't played since round one but is a chance to return this week. Adam Schneider was redrafted as a mature-age rookie, and at nearly 31 has provided the forward line with experience in the absence of Riewoldt. And Farren Ray, who just turned 29, will be looking to join Montagna in boosting the experience of the midfield when he returns from a hamstring tendon injury in the next few weeks. – Jennifer Phelan
The best vet: Jarrad McVeigh (30) The co-captain is the fifth oldest player at the Swans. Missed round one with a calf (often called the old man's injury), but hasn't missed a beat since his return, averaging 24 disposals and seven tackles per game. A dual club champion, 2013 All Australian and member of the 2012 premiership side, McVeigh is closing in on 250 games and if he stays healthy, will move into fifth place on the Swans' all-time games played list by season's end.
On the wane: Adam Goodes (35) Did the champ go on one year too long? Was subbed early in round one then started with the vest the following week. Spent two weeks in the NEAFL – his own decision to get some game time and form – before a recall to face the Western Bulldogs last week. Kicked two goals but looks on shaky ground with the likes of Dean Towers, Harry Cunningham, Isaac Heeney and Jake Lloyd moving ahead of the dual Brownlow medallist.
The others: Rhyce Shaw will turn 34 after the season, but is still a dasher off half-back, while fellow defenders Ted Richards (32) and Heath Grundy (29 in June)are considered veterans, but are also still extremely reliable down back. An injury-interrupted pre-season for Ben McGlynn (30 in August) has him a little off the pace and saw him dropped for the round five clash against the Dogs. Mike Pyke (31) has settled as the team's number one ruckman, and had a career-high 59 hit outs against the Bulldogs. – Adam Curley
Has Adam Goodes gone on a year too long or does he have one last shot at glory left? Picture: AFL Media
The best vet: Matt Priddis (30) He is now the oldest player on the Eagles list but he is still one of the best. The Brownlow medallist continues to be the gold standard of the Eagles midfield. He is equal first for tackles in the AFL this season and equal seventh for contested possessions.
On the wane: Sam Butler (29) You might have suggested Butler was on the wane 12 months ago, but in reality he is playing some exceptional football. However, he is the last of the 2006 premiership players still playing and his body has failed him over the years. He is not done yet, but he is playing on one-year contracts.
The others: Mark LeCras and Matt Rosa both turn 29 later this year. Both remain important players to the club in the short term but both have had significant injury issues over the past few years. – Alex Malcolm
The best vet: Robert Murphy (32) The evergreen playmaker is arguably in career-best form after inheriting the captaincy. He's been named in the best players each week so far in 2015 following his All Australian form off the half back flank, and his infectious love for the game has spread quickly through a once fractured club.
On the wane: Will Minson (30) After being named the 2013 All Australian ruckman, Minson hasn't been able to recapture the same form since. Ayce Cordy and Tom Campbell have been given opportunities ahead of him, but Luke Beveridge is adamant the 182-game veteran's card hasn't been marked.
The others: At 32, Matthew Boyd has been recast as a half back flanker and the move has been an undoubted success. Liam Picken has also had a change of role under Beveridge, with the 28-year-old going from a tagger to an attacking midfielder. Dale Morris was playing well until the 32-year-old injured his pectoral muscle in the round three loss to Hawthorn. And at 31, Brett Goodes has come off the rookie list to add another big body to an inexperienced Dogs outfit. – Ryan Davidson
