Michael Hurley had a season to remember in 2015. 

Finally finding his place in the backline, Hurley’s stellar year was rewarded with his first All-Australian selection.

The 26-year old ranked in the ‘elite’ class among Essendon’s players in 2015 as one of the most attacking defenders in the AFL.

He ranked second in disposals and uncontested possessions per game, and gained 60 metres more on average than any other key defender.

Hurley also ranked equal-third in the AFL for intercept possessions, and improved his one-on-one rating losing only 19% of his contests. 

Internally, his defining year saw the star finish second in the Club’s Crichton Medal and collecting the ‘Best Defensive Player’ award.

Able to take on some of the opposition’s most deadly forwards, Hurley will play an important role in 2017 and beyond.

Michael Hurley – 2015 Stats:

Matches – 19

Avg. Disposals – 21.9

Avg. Metres Gained – 415.8m

Avg. Marks -7

Avg. R50s – 6

Career Stats:

Games Played- 119

Goals – 105

Disposals – 1949

Tackles – 122

R50s – 268

Marks – 131