Two of the Brisbane Lions’ best young players have been rated the Club’s best defenders by afl.com.au.

Teenager Harris Andrews, this week’s NAB Rising Star nominee, and Marco Paparone have topped the rankings for their efforts across 2015.

Here’s how afl.com.au journalist Michael Whiting rated the two players:

Best key defender: Harris Andrews; 14 matches; 22 goals conceded; 1.63 goals conceded every 120 minutes
It's been an incredible first season for the Lions Academy product, who was rewarded this week with a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination. There must be a disclaimer in these numbers that Andrews played his first handful of games as a key forward, but even factoring that in, he's the Lions' best key post man in 2015, losing just 10 of his 36 one-on-one contests (27.8 per cent). A special mention goes to Justin Clarke, who is conceding just 2.36 goals per 120 minutes, despite almost always getting the best forward.

Best mid/small defender: Marco Paparone; 17 matches; 19 goals conceded; 1.22 goals conceded every 120 minutes
Paparone has been a quiet achiever this season, finding a home as a third tall or running defender. He has lost just 28 per cent of his one-on-one contests, which would surprise many considering his lighter frame. Jed Adcock was also his reliable self, conceding just 13 goals for the season before being switched to the forward line after the bye.