We're now six rounds through the new season which is a big enough sample size to start making educated calls not only on how clubs are travelling, but also individual players.
Every year, players from all clubs lift their games from the previous campaigns. Some are youngsters who are enjoying 'breakout seasons', others are relishing a new role, some are thriving on extra responsibility from coaching staff while some have simply started the year in red-hot form.
But who has taken the biggest strides this season? With apologies to Alex Keath, Gary Rohan, Hugh McCluggage, Jacob Hopper and Matt Taberner, I've narrowed it down to five, in no particular order.
Jack Bowes
A player exodus meant dark clouds surrounded Gold Coast during pre-season, but the Suns have surprised many with their initial strong start to the 2019 season. A major reason for that is the form of Bowes, who has taken his game to another level and showed why he was such a highly rated junior.
Having been handed matchups against stars like Nat Fyfe, Marcus Bontempelli and Patrick Cripps already this year highlights the confidence that Stuart Dew and the coaching staff have in the 187cm midfielder.
The Gold Coast academy product is averaging almost 23 disposals and five tackles a game and is certainly stepped up his output - and who could forget his last-minute match-winner against the Blues in Round 4!
Willem Drew
There is a group of youngsters creating serious excitement among Port Adelaide fans and Drew is certainly one of them. Pick 33 in the 2016 draft, the inside midfielder is clean and composed in traffic.
His 2018 season was wiped out due to a serious foot injury and it has been a real positive for Ken Hinkley to add the talented Drew into the mix this year. His hardness has stood out and he has averaged 18 disposals and four score involvements as a result.
Harry McKay
Leading the competition in contested marks (averaging 4.2 per game) and ranked seventh for marks inside 50 is one way to stamp your authority in the AFL. But it's been McKay's ability to present a strong target, coupled with his athleticism, that has many raving about his emergence this season.
Carlton have straightened up their movement significantly as they can now go forward with confidence. Despite a heart-breaking finish against the Hawks, where he could have been the match-winner after taking a mark within goal just after the final siren, 11 goals from McKay's six games has been a fantastic return.
Ed Langdon
Footy tipping has been difficult for most this season particularly when a surprise packet like Fremantle have hit their straps early. Langdon has played a big role in the positive showing for the Dockers with his consistent ball winning and link-up play.
Finishing fourth in the Doig Medal last season, Langdon has started the season extremely well and is averaging 28 disposals at 76 percent efficiency. The Dockers would be keen to lock the Victorian to a contract soon as other clubs start to circle.
Ricky Henderson
Age is just a number. At 30, Henderson highlights that every player can continue to improve. He is having a big impact on the way Hawthorn performs week in, week out.
All of the leading indicators are up for Henderson: score involvements, disposals and inside 50s. He's an unheralded type but he comfortably fits in the most improved category.