Since the first season of Game of Thrones, we’ve known the series will have to come down to an epic battle for the Iron Throne. And ultimately, we’ll see someone take the crown and usher in a new era of leadership in Westeros.

Fans have long debated which GoT character is best suited to end up as ruler of the realm. Some feel that only characters that are related to previous kings and queens by blood should have a shot. Others feel that, at this point, anyone qualified should have a chance.

These days, it seems like Jon Snow, aka the King in the North, is the most likely contender to win out. But there are many others for whom we can make an equally compelling case. We’ve taken a look at all of the major Game of Thrones players (listed in no particular order) to figure out who may ultimately be best suited to rule Westeros — and it may not be who you expect.

Jon Snow

There are a lot of reasons to root for Jon Snow’s ultimate victory on Game of Thrones. We learned late in Season 6 that he likely could claim the throne by blood, since he’s the son of both a Stark and a Targaryen. He would be a just ruler — he’s shown time and again that he values fairness more than power. He’s proven himself to be both brave and savvy, and he’s also not afraid to back down and stand up for what’s right.

But just because he won’t bend the knee for Daenerys Targaryen (or anyone else, for that matter) doesn’t mean he’s the right man to rule the Seven Kingdoms. The King in the North has always been a bit of a reluctant leader. And his bravery, and dedication to protecting the realm would be wasted if he had to spend most of his time going through the symbolic motions that await any king or queen.

Jon is at his best when he’s on a battlefield or among his people. And the best way to make sure he can stay where he belongs is for him to stay far away from the Iron Throne.