Richmond defender Nick Vlastuin has been named in the 2025 All-Australian squad, after his dominant season in the yellow and black.

Vlastuin, who played every game bar the Round 24 clash against the Cats, was a prominent and calming leader in defence during the Tigers' 2025 campaign.

Averaging 19.1 disposals and an above average 6.1 marks this season, the veteran provided structure to a mixed backline of experienced and young Tigers.

His season included many personal achievements and highlights, headlined by a win in his 250th game over Essendon at the MCG. In that nine-point victory, Vlastuin had 23 disposals and six intercept possessions.

13:05

Forging Forward Episode 6 | Set after set: 250 strong

As Nick Vlastuin approaches his 250th AFL game, we take a deeper look at the man behind the beard. In episode six of Forging Forward, we follow Vlastuin from the coast to the club — uncovering his love for surfing, his calm approach to chaos, and the fearless mindset that’s defined a premiership-laden career in the yellow and black.

The defender stood out for his prowess all season, but especially during hard-fought victories. In Round 1 against Carlton, Vlastuin's old-school defensive discipline shone through, collecting 21 disposals and 11 intercept possessions.

On his birthday in Round 6, the Tigers managed to overcome the Suns, with Vlastuin notching up 27 disposals, 13 marks and 15 intercept possessions in a personal season highlight.

01:48

Latitude Player of the Match: Round 6

A brick wall down back. Nick Vlastuin with a defensive masterclass on Saturday night has won the Latitude Player of the Match for Round 6.

Another impressive performance came against the Eagles in Round 19, when he collected 25 disposals and 11 marks in the comprehensive victory.

And while there weren't on field wins every week, the 31-year-old continued to stand tall when the young side required his efforts most.

Against the Demons in Round 7, he had 22 disposals and 11 intercepts. In Round 20's loss to Collingwood, it was yet another 25 disposals and a whopping 17 intercept possessions that proved his experience under pressure.

01:15

Latitude Player of the Match: Round 20

Nick Vlastuin has been awarded the Round 20 Player of the Match, backed by Latitude.

His squad selection is a testament to his unwavering Richmond commitment, loyalty, leadership and genuine football skill, amongst a stellar group of AFL footballers.

It's his second time being nominated in the 44-man squad, with his first call up to the extended list in the 2020 premiership winning season.

01:54

250 of the best for Nick Vlastuin

As Nick Vlastuin prepares for game 250, watch highlights from his illustrious career so far.

The All Australian selection panel was asked to select 44 players to recognise the leading players across all parts of the field – forwards, defenders and midfielders/rucks. 

The final team of 22, as per the criteria established in 2007, will be selected as if to play a match. The team will be named on Thursday, 28 August, as part of the AFL Awards.
 
The 2025 All Australian selection panel is Andrew Dillon (Chair), Eddie Betts, Jude Bolton, Nathan Buckley, Kane Cornes, Abbey Holmes, Glen Jakovich, Laura Kane and Matthew Pavlich.