With our list all settled for the 2019 season, AFL Media have tackled the big task of picking our best 22 for for the opening round next season.

Players suspended for Round 1, or who have long-term injury concerns likely to keep them on the sidelines early in the season, have been left out of the sides. They are denoted with an asterisk.

TEAM EXPLAINED

After having a relatively settled outfit in 2018, the addition of some off-season recruits should ensure genuine competition for spots.

While Chris Fagan wants more speed in his backline, no-one is jumping out of the pack to provide that just yet, although Zac Bailey's inclusion on the bench is designed to fill that need. 

Josh Walker finished 2018 strongly and can play as a back-up ruck to Stefan Martin, although Marcus Adams has been lured for a reason and will have designs on that spot. 

Lachie Neale comes in to replace departed Dayne Beams, while Lincoln McCarthy's inclusion is very much dependent on his fitness. 

Rhys Mathieson and Allen Christensen are desperately unlucky to miss out and could easily force their way in.

PRE-SEASON BATTLE

The contest between Marcus Adams and Josh Walker to fill the second key defender's position alongside Harris Andrews is fascinating. Walker had a terrific finish to last season, but Adams has been brought in on a multi-year deal for a reason.

Walker has the advantage of being able to back-up ruck, and Oscar McInerney could also fill that void if Adams is chosen. Walker has been a slow starter in his past couple of seasons and any repeat in 2019 would see his spot go to the former Bulldog. 

B: Darcy Gardiner, Harris Andrews, Nick Robertson
HB: Luke Hodge, Josh Walker, Alex Witherden
C: Hugh McCluggage, Jarrod Berry, Tom Cutler
HF: Lewy Taylor, Dan McStay, Lincoln McCarthy
F: Charlie Cameron, Eric Hipwood, Cam Rayner
Foll: Stefan Martin, Lachie Neale, Dayne Zorko
I/C: Jarryd Lyons, Daniel Rich, Mitch Robinson, Zac Bailey

Defender depth: Marcus Adams, Noah Answerth, Allen Christensen, Cedric Cox, Matt Eagles, Mitch Hinge, James Madden, Jack Payne, Sam Skinner

Forward depth: Connor Ballenden, Tom Berry, Tom Fullarton, Connor McFadyen, Toby Wooller

Midfield depth: Jacob Allison, Ryan Bastinac, Tom Joyce, Ben Keays, Ryan Lester, Corey Lyons, Rhys Mathieson, Ely Smith, Brandon Starcevich

Ruck depth: Oscar McInerney, Archie Smith