Essendon veteran David Zaharakis has earned a perfect 10 for his performance against North Melbourne in the AFL Coaches Association's AFL Champion Player Award.

The 30-year-old starred with three goals from 20 disposals, stepping up in the absence of injured goalkicker Jake Stringer to steer the Bombers to victory and a position in the top four.

Young defender Jordan Ridley continued his sensational rise in 2020, deemed next best with six votes - his third successive game earning AFLCA votes.

The 21-year-old again again showed his composure, class and aerial ability, collecting 18 disposals at 83 per cent efficiency and taking a game-high seven marks (three contested).

Andrew McGrath (two votes), Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (one) and Adam Saad (one) rounded out the Essendon contingent.

Dylan Shiel is the Bombers' highest vote-getter after six rounds, placed equal 10th overall on 20 votes.