With the NAB Challenge approaching, AFL.com.au will examine all the defenders, midfielders and forwards on your club's list.  

Today, we assess the backmen from Hawthorn to the Western Bulldogs. 

Click here to read yesterday's piece looking at Adelaide through to Greater Western Sydney.

Mitch Clisby: Battled hard after being given an opportunity under Neil Craig. Has a slim frame but he is courageous and was prepared to take responsibility for kick-ins. He will put pressure on the incumbents and provide solid back-up as a small to medium defender.

Lynden Dunn: After a terrible start to last season, Dunn was very good in the second half of the year as he settled down in defence. He wins one-on-ones, takes intercept marks and applies pressure. He is underrated, has had a good pre-season and could be an elite defender if he can gain some momentum.

James Frawley: It's a big year ahead for the restricted free agent, who is holding off re-signing until the club's direction becomes clearer. He played under duress for the early part of last season but he still showed his class, defending well without any midfield protection. Set himself a goal of running more pre-season and achieved it. Has had an uninterrupted summer and is set to stamp himself on the competition. 

Colin Garland: An operation to remove a bone spur from his ankle on January 22 is expected to sideline him for the next four to six weeks. However he looked to moving well when inducted into the leadership group and has a good fitness base. Last year's best and fairest runner-up has become a general in defence.

Alexis Georgiou: A defensive backman who can negate opponents. Comes in with a mature body and mind after four years at Norwood and is expected to make the most of his opportunity. He is a good kick but does not take enormous risks. Has been solid in pre-season.

Jack Grimes: After playing in the undermanned midfield because the team was desperate he will get a chance to settle in defence. Before becoming captain, he shaped as a quality half-back flanker and moves the ball well. Grimes is sure to benefit from completing his first injury-free pre-season. 

Neville Jetta: Has not cemented a spot despite being tried in all parts of the ground. Shapes as a tough, willing small defender and he has a great attitude. He has had a relatively injury free pre-season and could be a rapid improver.  

Tom McDonald: Had a shoulder reconstruction post-season, which meant he started contact work late. As usual he excelled in the running drills, finishing second in the pre-season time trial run over three kilometres. Applies good pressure and takes on the game's best players but still has plenty of improvement left in him, particularly with his kicking.

Daniel Nicholson: An elite runner but his kicking lets him down. No surprise that he won the three-kilometre time trial. Has been tried as a tagger as well as a small defender and will start behind Terlich in the battle for that position. Needs to start the season well. 

Cameron Pedersen: He plays well in defence at VFL level but struggles to translate that form into the AFL. A big-bodied player he shapes as insurance if injury strikes one of the Demons' talls. Has put in over the pre-season.

James Strauss: Has been disappointing and appears to lack confidence but teases occasionally with an exceptional kick or a quick switch of play from defence. Had a shoulder operation post-season but returned to full training in December. Shapes as a make or break season for the 23-year-old.

Dean Terlich: Continues to work on his defensive game after a solid debut season with the Demons. Although he finished third in the club best and fairest, he has plenty of rough edges to polish. Can't fault his attitude as he never drops his head and plays best when the team needs him most. - Peter Ryan

 

Cameron Delaney: Has had a disrupted pre-season with a toe injury, but is hopeful of returning for North's opening NAB Challenge game against Carlton. Impressed in his one senior game in 2013, in round 18 against Melbourne, and should push for more senior games if he stays fit.

Michael Firrito: Endured a tough 2013 with injury and form but looks well placed this year, having completed far more work this pre-season than last. His ability to play on talls and smalls remains a valuable asset for North.

Nathan Grima: Has formed a reliable combination with Scott Thompson in recent years, but the key defender has waged a constant battle with his body. Grima is gradually returning to full training after battling back soreness and is expected to play in the latter part of the NAB Challenge.

Lachlan Hansen: The reborn defender became an important member of North's backline last year with his intercept marking. Has focused on bulking up this pre-season so he can match power forwards in one-one-contests.

Luke McDonald: The father-son recruit is a strong chance of round one selection after impressing in North's match-practice drills this summer. Quick and extremely competitive, the left-footer is likely to start his AFL career across half-back.

Scott McMahon: After struggling with injury and fitness last season, he will enter 2014 the fittest he has been for several years after completing a full pre-season. Has the defensive nous and sure foot skills to reclaim a senior spot.

Aaron Mullett: One of North's most improved players last year, the dashing half-back has been hindered by a toe injury this pre-season. Recently resumed running and is expected to play in North's later pre-season games.

Scott Thompson: Last year's All Australian full-back had minor post-season knee surgery, but resumed full training before Christmas. One of North's most valuable and dependable players.

Max Warren: A solid performer with North Ballarat in the VFL over the past two seasons, the small defender/tagger enters his third season on North's rookie list looking to push for senior selection.

Mitch Wilkins: The attacking defender had an encouraging year in the VFL with North Ballarat in 2013. Has built his strength this summer in an effort to improve his contested play.

Sam Wright: Set to return to half-back in 2014 after struggling as a forward last year. Had post-season shoulder surgery but is close to resuming contact training. - Nick Bowen

Darcy Byrne-Jones: Still learning the game but has really impressed coaching staff in his first pre-season. Big tank and has managed to get through what's been a tough summer. 

Alipate Carlile: His pre-season has flowed on from what was a great 2013. He's in much better shape than he was a few years ago and is a vital component of the backline. 

Tom Clurey: The big-bodied defender has been sensational this pre-season, taking his game to new heights. Could well be in line for an AFL debut if his development continues in the SANFL.

Sam Colquhoun: Showed much promise as a flexible defender in 10 games last year as the youngest player on the list. His time trials have been brilliant this summer and he'd expect to push for more AFL exposure this year. 

Campbell Heath: The former Sydney Swan was solid last year with 12 games. Good leader on the field who could find himself in a number of positions in 2014.

Jack Hombsch: Hip surgery delayed the start to his pre-season but he's back into training and should be fit to feature in the NAB Challenge. Has bulked up to better handle big forwards.

Jarman Impey: Couldn't have started his AFL career any better. Has been super impressive on the track and from all reports is closing in on a round one debut.

Tom Logan: The dogged defender had surgery on his thumb after a sensational 2013 finals series, but is back into full training. Faces stiff competition for a spot in back six.

Tom Jonas: Really cemented his place in Ken Hinkley's starting side last year and his pre-season suggests he'll build on that form in 2014. Hard-working, no-frills player – coaches love what he brings.

Cam O'Shea: Super 2013 season culminating with a top-10 best and fairest placing. Has hardly missed a beat this summer and is now one of the defence's most valuable.

Jasper Pittard: Second half of the year was solid, importantly though he managed 13-straight games after several injury-interrupted seasons. He's a lock at half-back when fit and now looks in terrific touch. 

Sam Russell: The rookie has had an interrupted pre-season due to injury after arriving from Carlton, but Russell's running ability should hold him in good stead if he performs for the Magpies in the SANFL.  

Lewis Stevenson: Played some good footy last year in his first for the club and has trained solidly all summer. Has worked hard on his game when not in possession.

Jackson Trengove: A jarred knee put a dent in his 2014 preparation, but he managed to build a strong fitness base before the January injury. One of the most important players in the side.

David Astbury: Is expected to figure early in the season if he holds his form after an outstanding injury-free pre-season. Is fifth/sixth in running and has played at full-back and also up the ground.

Troy Chaplin: Is rated ahead of where he was 12 months ago in regards to his knee. Is being managed well and the Tigers are rapt with how much training he's done. Will be important in a leadership sense again.

Ben Darrou: The developing third year rookie has surprised coaching staff with the inroads he's made, working with Mark Williams and Greg Mellor. Played on Aaron Edwards in an 18-on-18 game and showed promise. Pushing to play in the NAB Challenge.   

Matt Dea: Has had a strong pre-season after calf and shoulder injuries in 2013. Has played on Tyrone Vickery and Jack Riewoldt in a bid to increase his scope of opponents and give him more chance of playing seniors this year.

Dylan Grimes: Has to be managed through summer because of his injury history but has had more of a pre-season than he has in the past. His versatility will be important if he can manage his first full season in five years.  

Ben Lennon: First-year player who is comfortable playing midfield and forward but is learning the craft across half-back with the ball in front of him. Has impressed with his kicking and it's possible he could be eased in.

Dustin Martin: Has spent time training with the defenders this summer and will play back, forward and through the midfield. Will be used to attack off half back and help set up with his time spent in defence to develop his all-round game.

Matt McDonough: Drafted as a forward but has been playing in defence this pre-season. Has trimmed up, can find a target on both sides and is considered to have put together a really promising summer ahead of his second season.

Steven Morris: The Tigers' hardest trainer has taken his fitness to another level over the summer. Does everything at 110 per cent and may play on the ball at times this year given his impressive engine.

Alex Rance: Will look to put together a consistent season after a commanding start to 2012 and a strong end to last season. Is supremely fit, has had a full pre-season and is rated as one of their most important defenders.

Nick Vlastuin: Hasn't shown any signs of trailing off after 18 games in his debut season. Has increased his fitness, having not possessed a natural midfielder's engine, but will push into the middle at times this year. - Jennifer Phelan

Josh Bruce: The 21-year-old crossed from Greater Western Sydney with plenty to learn and he has applied himself well this pre-season. His intensity in training has stepped up significantly in the last month and he will be competing for one of the key defensive posts.   

Luke Delaney: Had a hip operation at the end of last season and made a slow start after crossing from North Melbourne. The 21-year-old has moved into full training in the last three weeks and the club is confident he will be available for the opening NAB Challenge clash. 

Sean Dempster: Continues to enhance his reputation as an ultimate professional and another strong season from the All Australian appears likely. Has played tall and small in match simulation drills and his flexibility should be utilised this season. Hitting new levels with his fitness and strength.    

Sam Fisher: Seen by the Saints as an added bonus this season after just nine games in 2013. A foot injury ended his year, but he has made a full recovery and is competing well in one-on-one contests. He notched his best time trial results for two years.

Jarryn Geary: The most impressive defender this pre-season, Geary has utilised his elite running ability and continued to build his rebounding game. His ability to provide offensive run has been a consistent feature of the Saints' backline set-up this summer. His leadership also continues to grow.

Sam Gilbert: Has used his size and running ability well in match simulation drills and is another versatile option who has matched up on tall and small opponents. His coaches have been impressed with his leadership and ability to roll off opponents to support teammates.

James Gwilt: After two seasons interrupted by knee injuries, Gwilt's coaches have made mention that he has his speed back. The senior defender has been training at a high intensity and has hardly been beaten in match simulation drills. One of the most impressive performers since returning to full training after missing the Colorado training camp.      

Dylan Roberton: Suffered an ankle injury late in 2013 and is slowly returning from surgery with a focus on improving his fitness. Expect the Saints to assess how he handles the next fortnight of full training before deciding if he if he plays in the opening NAB Challenge match. 

Tom Simpkin: Was restricted early by a leg injury and missed the Colorado training camp, but his intensity has lifted in the last month. The Saints' recruiting leaves Simpkin down the pecking order in defence, but he has shown an ability to fight his way into the team.

Jimmy Webster: The left-footer has floated around the lines, but appears most likely to feature across half-back in 2014. His precise ball-use has been impressive and he is being given licence to take the game on. Has worked just as hard off the track reviewing his training with new backline coach David Teague. 

Nathan Wright: Missed the Colorado training camp because of shin soreness but is back in full training now, moving between the backline and midfield. Has impressed with his application on the track and in the gym. His last week of training in particular has been very strong. - Nathan Schmook

Aliir Aliir: The young Sudanese draftee is having some trial at AFL level. He has spent time on Lance Franklin, Kurt Tippett and Sam Reid during his first pre-season with the club.

Matthew Dick: A running defender and a good competitor, he has put on some size and strength as he prepares for his second year on the list.

Heath Grundy: One of the more undervalued defenders outside the club, the consistent Grundy has been on a limited program to date but is well on track for round one of the new season.

Alex Johnson: Forced to undergo a second knee reconstruction late last year, Johnson is making slow but steady progress, taking part in some skill work at training over the past week.

Jeremy Laidler: Picked up from Carlton during the trade period, Laidler is settling in really well and showing good signs during pre-season training.

Jordan Lockyer: Returned from the off-season in excellent shape and is giving himself every chance of cracking a senior game heading into his third year on the list.

Nick Malceski: The 29-year-old seems in ripping nick and has been one of the club's best performers throughout the pre-season so far.

Dane Rampe: The club's reigning rookie of the year has picked up where he left off last season, demonstrating excellent fitness and appearing on track for a long career in the backline.

Ted Richards: Having ticked over 200 career games last season, the popular defender is clearly still the backline marshall as evidenced by his pre-season to date.

Rhyce Shaw: The veteran is absolutely flying since LARS knee surgery late last season and is well on track to take his place in the backline in round one.

Nick Smith: The vital small defender played all but one match last season to sit on 98 for his career. - James Dampney

 

Tom Barrass: Pick No. 43 in last year's draft has been placed on the long-term injury list after requiring surgery to repair a torn hip joint. He will not return to training until mid-April.

Jamie Bennell: Played three WAFL reserves and 12 WAFL senior matches in 2013 in his first year back from a knee reconstruction. Was elevated to the senior list and has trained impressively through the pre-season and should play in the NAB Challenge.

Mitch Brown: Played 19 matches in 2013, his equal best in seven seasons in the AFL. Has spent some time playing as a forward in the game simulation sessions during the pre-season.

Jacob Brennan: Played 10 matches in 2013 after 16 in 2012. Recovering from a bone stress injury in his shin that has stalled his pre-season. Still yet to re-join the main group.

Sam Butler: Has played 108 matches in 10 seasons including 15 last year. He has been carefully managed in the pre-season. His body must hold up this year.

Adam Carter: Played five games late in his debut season. Very exciting prospect who has been impressive throughout the pre-season. Has the skill set required to fit into Adam Simpson's new game plan playing as a small, running defender.

Brant Colledge: Pick No. 45 in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft. He was sidelined for most of 2013 due to ankle surgery. He is capable of playing at both ends, and performed well in recent match practice. Will be in contention for the NAB Challenge and round one.

Darren Glass: The skipper is still a vital cog in the Eagles defence. Looks extremely fit and will be very important to help sell the new coach's game-plan to his team.

Shannon Hurn: Looks sharp after missing the last 10 matches last year due to an ankle injury. His kicking in the pre-season has stood out. Key figure for the Eagles in 2014.

Eric Mackenzie: Took his game to another level in 2013 and was unlucky not to win the best and fairest and be named All Australian. Looks in great shape after a terrific pre-season.

Jeremy McGovern: Returned to the pre-season following hip surgery in terrible shape and was sent away to get up to speed. Has responded sensationally and will be a contender for the NAB Challenge matches. 

Rowen Powell: Pick No. 22 in the rookie draft. Has trained away from the main group in his first pre-season and won't be in contention for senior selection for a while.

Will Schofield: Injury-interrupted 2013, missing six matches mid-year due to a fractured finger. Suffered a hamstring strain in January and will be touch and go for the NAB Challenge.

Ashley Smith: Played 12 matches in 2013 including the last eight. Admitted late last year he needed to perform better. Should get his chance under the new coach in the NAB Challenge.

Beau Waters: Waters has had a horror pre-season due to complications with his shoulder surgery. Has stood down as vice-captain. Still weighing up further surgery or playing through pain. He is a long way off playing at present.

Blayne Wilson: Debuted against St Kilda in round 11 and played seven matches in 2013. The 21-year-old will benefit from Adam Simpson's game style. His skills and decision-making will give him opportunities in the NAB Challenge and see him push for round one

Elliot Yeo: Played 19 matches for the Brisbane Lions last year and looks ready-made to slot straight into half-back at West Coast. Has been very impressive in pre-season practice matches and looks likely to play a large part this season. - Alex Malcolm