The Brownlow has become the midfielder’s medal – but are the umpires to blame?

Awarding the 2025 Brownlow Medal to Gold Coast’s Matt Rowell has continued the justified belief that the Brownlow Medal is the midfielder’s medal.

2003 was the last time a non-midfielder won the award, with Adam Goodes playing as a ruckman. Prior to that, back pocket Gavin Wanganeen (1993) was the last defender, Scott Wynd (1992) the last pure ruckman, and Tony Lockett (1987) the last forward to win.

Along with the 38 midfielders to win since Lockett, Patrick Cripps being awarded the most...