Ahead of the Round 14 bye, AFL Media's Sarah Black casts an eye over the standout players at Richmond so far this season.

Richmond

Best and fairest 
1. Shane Edwards – Has come full circle with a return to half-back where he started his career. Acting captaincy suited him in an injury-ravaged season for the club, and he has been consistent and creative out of defence.

2. Dustin Martin – Had some quieter games, but some absolute top-liners as well. Is hitting the scoreboard and showing leadership, as displayed when he lead Richmond as captain in last Thursday night's loss to Adelaide, gathering 32 disposals and booting two goals.

3. Bachar Houli – Is averaging a career-high 29.3 disposals despite missing three games with a hamstring strain.

WHAT'S YOUR FINAL 5? Attend any five of our last seven games at the 'G

Recruit of the year: Sydney Stack – Signed at the end of the Supplementary Selection Period in March, the rookie has shone in defence; his toughness, physicality and skill under pressure has won fans across football.

Most improved: Noah Balta – Still has quite a way to go, but has cemented himself in the side since debuting in round one. Looks at his best on the ball or bounding down the wing, where his athleticism and ball-reading ability is at its strongest.

Rookie of the Year: Liam Baker – Could easily slot into "most improved" but has a Rising Star nomination. Tough as nails, the diminutive forward has also spent time on the wing where his speed and strong marking has stood out.

Goal of the year: Jason Castagna, round 8 v Fremantle – A lot of elements here. Sprinting, spinning, a bounce, two opponents and an umpire. Enjoy above.

Mark of the year: Sydney Stack, round 6 v Melbourne – Jack Riewoldt unlucky, but this gets the points for being taken over two opponents.