Unshackled from his tagging responsibilities in 2020, the chart-topping Jack Steele took the next step in becoming a star midfielder of the competition.

The No. 9 led in almost every facet after being unleashed as a genuine two-way player, racking up plenty of footy as the cornerstone of St Kilda's revamped midfield with his customary ferocity, unwavering work ethic and growing leadership capabilities.

By season's end, the super Saint had notched up his maiden Trevor Barker Award, All-Australian honours (the club's first recipient since 2014) and an equal-third-placed finish at 2020 Brownlow Medal count (20 votes).

Exceptional performances against Richmond (21 disposals, 10 tackles), Adelaide (26 disposals, 13 clearances), Gold Coast (21 disposals, two goals), Brisbane (25 disposals, 10 tackles) and GWS (18 disposals, two goals) emphasised how damaging the tough-as-nails Saint could be when set free.

And while the hunter often became the hunted as his reputation began to skyrocket, Steele rarely had his colours lowered.

Steele was originally selected by Greater Western Sydney with pick No. 24 in the 2014 National Draft, before making his way to St Kilda at the end of 2016.

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