ALREADY a Brownlow Medallist, but what about a four-time John Nicholls Medallist?

This could be Patrick Cripps’ title should he take home the top honour at Friday night's best-and-fairest count. 

Fresh off his Brownlow Medal victory, Cripps is undoubtedly going to be one of the key pollers tomorrow, which would be his fourth John Nicholls Medal in eight years after winning his first in his second season back in 2015.

Should he win his fourth Carlton award, he will be tied with Club Legend Bruce Doull on four wins, sitting one behind the award's namesake in Nicholls himself.

Returning back to his dominant form of 2018 and 2019, the midfield bull averaged 28 disposals, 15 contested possessions and eight clearances a game, missing only one game for the season after a frustrating past two years. 

Another facet that elevated Cripps’ 2022 season was his goalkicking ability, slotting a career-high 20 goals – his next best were the 13 goals he registered in both 2019 and 2021.

His ability to go away and work on his craft in front of goal was just one example of Cripps' commitment to his craft.

What's also likely to hold Cripps in good stead in the best-and-fairest award is his leadership on the ground, which was also reflected by his vice-captain status in the All-Australian team.

Much like the Brownlow count, it is expected Cripps will poll well early, where he had six 30-plus disposal performances and 11 goals in his first seven games.

While it’s hard to pick just one best game - considering Cripps had seven three-vote performances in the Brownlow Medal - his Round 2 effort against the Bulldogs were crucial on a night where the Blues were without Michael Voss in the coaches' box due to AFL Health and Safety Protocols.

With 35 disposals and two goals, as well as 23 contested possessions and 11 clearances, the bandaged Cripps on the final siren became an iconic image in Carlton’s 2022 season.