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2025 AFL Debutant Checklist and Information

2025 Debutant Checklist — Batches

2025 Debutant Checklist

A 2025 DEBUTANT card is awarded for each players' DEBUT game in the AFL, meaning they could be from any previous draft. 

The DEBUTANT cards for Rounds 16 - 24 will be listed here soon, but are are already open to  ORDER HERE, but only until Tuesday October 7th,  7PM AEST.

Click a debutant’s name to reveal their description.

Debutant Batch #1

Card# Round Date DEBUTANT Club Venue Vs
DG1 Opening Round 07 Mar 2025
The only debutant in the first game of 2025 was the compact midfielder from Gippsland, who the Sydney Swans took at pick 14 in last year's Mid-Season Draft. Despite the setback of a quad injury during pre-season training, Hanily was the sub for the Opening Round clash against Hawthorn and had 6 disposals (3 contested) and laid 3 tackles in 31% game time after replacing Angus Sheldrick.
Sydney Swans SCG Hawthorn
DG2 Opening Round 09 Mar 2025
The GIANTS second pick (No.17 overall) from the 2023 Telstra AFL Draft made his senior debut in the 2025 Opening Round after his initial campaign was ruined by a quad injury that prevented him from playing until July. The angular Tasmanian caught the eye in his first match - a 52-point hammering of Collingwood - with 5 score involvements and 3 clearances among his 11 disposals, as well as a final quarter goal.
GIANTS Engie Stadium Collingwood
DG3 Round 1 13 Mar 2025
Impressive and aggressive key forward who was one of 3 debutants for the rebuilding Richmond in its traditional season opener against Carlton at the MCG. While the No.23 pick from last year's Telstra AFL Draft was goalless and had only 5 disposals, he provided a target and competed hard in a memorable win. The following week Armstrong was eye-catching with 12 disposals and 2.2 against Port Adelaide.
Richmond MCG Carlton
DG4 Round 1 13 Mar 2025
The perfect beginning to an AFL career by the No.1 selection from the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft with a starring role in Richmond's remarkable comeback triumph against Carlton in front of 80,000 at the MCG. Lalor received the first Telstra AFL Rising Star nomination of the season for his 18 disposals, 2 goal assists and 2 goals after half-time as the Tigers overcame a 41-point deficit to prevail by 13.
Richmond MCG Carlton
DG5 Round 1 13 Mar 2025
Half a century after goalkicking great Doug Wade played the last of his 267 games (the 1975 Grand Final), his grandson played his first after Richmond picked him with selection 21 at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft. A tall utility but primarily a key defender, Trainor had 15 disposals, 2 clearances, laid 2 tackles and took 5 marks for the Tigers in their memorable win over Carlton before 80,009 fans at the MCG.
Richmond MCG Carlton
DG6 Round 1 13 Mar 2025
The twin sons of Carlton Premiership star Scott Camporeale were taken by the Blues at last year's Telstra AFL Draft at picks 43 (Ben) and 54 (Lucas) respectively. With Ben overcoming an ankle injury it was Lucas who debuted first, being one of the side's few bright lights in a shock loss to Richmond in Round 1. The athletic winger had 20 disposals and laid 5 tackles in an impressive maiden outing.
Carlton MCG Richmond
DG7 Round 1 14 Mar 2025
Dynamic small forward who Essendon took via its Next Generation Academy after matching Richmond's bid at pick 13 at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft. The explosive Kako, almost appropriately, kicked the Bombers first goal of 2025 when he spectacularly soccered the ball off the ground under immense pressure from Tom Barrass against Hawthorn. He finished his impressive debut with 14 disposals and 6 score involvements.
Essendon MCG Hawthorn
DG8 Round 1 15 Mar 2025
Astonishing debut at GMHBA Stadium by the classy on-baller and forward, who single-handedly dragged the Fremantle Dockers back into the contest against the Geelong Cats with 4 goals in 6 minutes during time-on of the third quarter. Reid, the No.17 pick at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft, booted his majors in all different fashions to give the Dockers faithful a glimpse of his exciting future.
Fremantle Dockers GMHBA Stadium Geelong Cats
DG9 Round 1 15 Mar 2025
The first mature-aged player taken at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft was the classy left footer, who the Sydney Swans grabbed at pick 41 after a year starring for Werribee at half-back on the way to the club winning the VFL Premiership. Bice, 24, began his AFL journey in the Grand Final rematch in Round 1 as the Swans sub and was eye-catching in the 31% game time he received, having 12 disposals for 304m gained.
Sydney Swans SCG Brisbane lions
DG10 Round 1 15 Mar 2025
Stunning debut for the reigning premiers by the younger brother of 2024 Norm Smith Medallist Will Ashcroft and son of 3-time Premiership star Marcus Ashcroft. Levi was taken by the Brisbane Lions at pick 5 of the Telstra AFL Draft and after an impeccable junior career was one of the best afield in the 4-point win against the Sydney Swans with 25 disposals, 495m gained, 6 score involvements and 4 clearances.
Brisbane Lions SCG Sydney Swans
DG11 Round 1 15 Mar 2025
Rangy and athletic forward who was awarded the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal in 2024 as the VFL's most promising young player after winning Richmond's goalkicking with 26 majors. The Western Bulldogs swooped at pick 51 at the Telstra AFL Draft and Davidson was busy on debut with 10 disposals, 3 marks, a second quarter goal, 4 score involvements and 4 tackles (including an equal team-high 3 of them inside 50).
Western Bulldogs Marvel Stadium North Melbourne
DG12 Round 1 15 Mar 2025
Clever small forward with elite pace and poise who the Western Bulldogs grabbed at selection 31 at last year's Telstra AFL Draft. With Cody Weightman sidelined with a knee injury, Dolan made his AFL debut at the start of the 2025 campaign, having 5 disposals, 3 score involvements and laying 2 tackles in the side's hard-fought 16-point win over North Melbourne. The 18-year-old had 7 disposals the following week.
Western Bulldogs Marvel Stadium North Melbourne
DG13 Round 1 15 Mar 2025
Speedy small forward who was a first-round Telstra AFL Draft pick (No.20) in 2022 but didn't play a senior game in his 2 years as a Sydney Swan. Traded to North Melbourne at the end of 2024 as part of the Luke Parker deal, Konstanty made his AFL debut against the Western Bulldogs. While the 20-year-old didn't hit the scoreboard he had 10 disposals (5 contested and 3 of them intercepts) and laid 6 tackles (2 inside 50).
North Melbourne Marvel Stadium Western Bulldogs
DG14 Round 1 15 Mar 2025
The No.2 selection at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft joined the plethora of emerging talent at Arden Street as North Melbourne continues to build an enviable young list. A damaging midfielder, O'Sullivan made his AFL debut in Round 1, having 16 disposals (10 kicks and 6 handballs) at 81.3% efficiency including 4 score involvements and 4 intercept possessions in a narrow loss to the Western Bulldogs.
North Melbourne Marvel Stadium Western Bulldogs
DG15 Round 1 15 Mar 2025
Port Adelaide's first pick (No.15) at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft is a small forward with a damaging left boot who starred for Vic Country in the AFL Under-18 Championships with 9 goals in 4 games to earn All-Australian honours. Berry was unveiled at senior level in the Power's first game of 2025, taking 6 marks and having 9 disposals in front of 63,000 against Collingwood. He kicked his first goal against Richmond the following week.
Port Adelaide MCG Collingwood
DG16 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
Star SANFL ruckman who won the 2024 Magarey Medal in the wake of a dominant campaign for Norwood. Needing ruck back-up, St Kilda signed the now 27-year-old in the pre-season Supplemental Selection Period and with the Saints No.1 big man Rowan Marshall underdone after injury was introduced to AFL action in Round 1. Boyd matched Adelaide Crow Reilly O'Brien for disposals (12 each) and had 27 hit-outs in a competitive display.
St Kilda Adelaide Oval Adelaide Crows
DG17 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
A tough day to make your AFL debut in a 63-point loss in hostile territory against a rampant Adelaide Crows, but the speedy half-forward showed more than enough to suggest he has a bright future at the highest level. Hall, taken at pick 4 by St Kilda at last year's Mid-Season Draft, kicked the Saints first 3 scores (1.2), had 2.2 by half-time and finished with 16 disposals and 5 marks in a display full of merit.
St Kilda Adelaide Oval Adelaide Crows
DG18 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
Tough and talented Irishman (who lived in Perth for 7 years as a child) who St Kilda obtained as a Category B rookie in late 2023. After spending 2024 honing his game in the VFL, O'Connell was a star of the pre-season and debuted with 7 disposals against the Adelaide Crows in Round 1. In Round 2 against the Geelong Cats he took an incredibly brave and potentially match-saving mark in the dying minutes.
St Kilda Adelaide Oval Adelaide Crows
DG19 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
The highly touted South Australian began his AFL career as sub for the full-strength Adelaide Crows, with the team in blistering form. The Crows took the star young on-baller with their prized No.4 pick at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft, and he had 8 disposals and took 4 marks in 33% game time on debut against St Kilda. Draper got 28% match time in his second outing and had 9 disposals and laid 4 tackles.
Adelaide Crows Adelaide Oval St Kilda
DG20 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
With the season-ending Achilles injury suffered by Shane McAdam in February, Melbourne snared the hard-working small forward for its final list spot despite him spending the summer training with the West Coast Eagles. Henderson, best afield in Werribee's VFL Grand Final triumph in 2024, made his AFL debut 25 days after signing with the Demons, having 13 disposals and kicking a first quarter goal against the GIANTS.
Melbourne MCG GIANTS
DG21 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
The key forward finally made his AFL debut in his third season on Melbourne's list after being a first-round selection (No.15) at the 2022 Telstra AFL Draft. A week after his 21st birthday, Jefferson played his first game in Round 1 against the GIANTS, enjoying a dream start by booting a goal in the first 15 seconds. He also kicked the Demons only goal of the final quarter but broke his hand early in Round 2.
Melbourne MCG GIANTS
DG22 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
Robust, mature-aged key forward who Melbourne snapped up with its final selection (No.68) at last year's Telstra AFL Draft after his pivotal role in Werribee's VFL Premiership. Johnson competed hard in the Demons Round 1 clash against the GIANTS - kicking a goal in the third quarter to give his side its biggest lead of the match (17 points), rucking at times (5 hit-outs) and laying 5 tackles.
Melbourne MCG GIANTS
DG23 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
Strong, left footed midfielder who stands 191cm and who Melbourne drafted at pick 6 at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft. The winner of the Larke Medal for best player in Division 1 of the AFL Under-18 Championships, Langford was the Demons sub for their first match of 2025 against the GIANTS. Introduced in the final quarter of the 3-point loss, he had 5 disposals in 21% game time.
Melbourne MCG GIANTS
DG24 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
The second of Melbourne's prized early selections (No.11) at last year's Telstra AFL Draft was used on the stylish left footer, who won the 2024 Morrish Medal as best player in the Coates Talent League. Lindsay made a sparkling debut for the Demons in their season opener against the GIANTS, being among the best players with 22 disposals at 82% efficiency and laying a team-high 6 tackles.
Melbourne MCG GIANTS
DG25 Round 1 16 Mar 2025
Giant key forward (203cm) who had a delayed start to 2024 due a knee injury he had when selected at pick 30 at the 2023 Telstra AFL Draft. Reid booted 17 goals from 15 games at WAFL level and was twice named an AFL emergency. Endured a rugged senior debut in Round 1 with the Eagles having only 34 inside 50s against the Gold Coast SUNS in a heavy loss. He had 6 disposals, laid 3 tackles and had 6 hit-outs.
West Coast Eagles Optus Stadium Gold Coast SUNS
DG26 Round 2 22 Mar 2025
One of the few highlights from Essendon's dirty day against the Adelaide Crows at the MCG was the debut of the athletic forward, who in a month has gone from school teaching in Perth to being a key target in the Bombers front half via the Supplemental Selection Period. Edwards, 24, booted a goal with his first kick at AFL level and finished with 3.1 from 6 kicks and 2 marks to suggest a bright future.
Essendon MCG Adelaide Crows
DG27 Round 2 22 Mar 2025
Quality on-baller nabbed by Port Adelaide in the second round (No.38) of the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft who was named as the Power's sub for its Round 2 clash with Richmond. The hard-running Moraes was introduced early after boom recruit Jack Lukosius suffered a fractured kneecap in the first quarter, and he was eye-catching with 17 disposals at a match-high 94% efficiency, 6 marks and 4 inside 50s.
Port Adelaide Adelaide Oval Richmond
DG28 Round 2 22 Mar 2025
Glandular fever and then a persistent back injury derailed the key forward's first year at Richmond in 2024, but he was the fourth teenager the Tigers handed a senior debut to in the opening 2 rounds of 2025. The 197cm Fawcett was back on home soil in taking on Port Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval, having 5 disposals and kicking a magnificent second quarter goal from just outside the 50m arc.
Richmond Adelaide Oval Port Adelaide
DG29 Round 2 22 Mar 2025
At 198cm and with a graceful, unhurried style, the high marking key forward and occasional ruckman has been a big watch at St Kilda since being taken at pick 44 in the 2022 Telstra AFL Draft. Keeler made his debut in Round 2 against the Geelong Cats, with an early third quarter goal from long range (45m) the highlight of a night which yielded 7 disposals, 2 marks, 4 tackles and 3 hit-outs.
St Kilda Marvel Stadium Geelong Cats
DG30 Round 2 23 Mar 2025
Natural forward who was the Coates Talent League leading goalkicker last year when the Brisbane Lions picked him up in the Mid-Season Draft (No.6). Proceeded to kick 24 goals in 13 VFL games upon joining the Lions and debuted against the West Coast Eagles in Round 2. Booted 2.1 from 8 disposals in the come-from-behind victory - his majors being early in the second quarter and late in the third.
Brisbane Lions GABBA West Coast Eagles
DG31 Round 3 27 Mar 2025
Exciting winger or flanker who Essendon took in last year's Mid-Season Draft at pick 13 and was in line for a senior call-up until suffering an ankle injury. Named as the sub for the Thursday night encounter with Port Adelaide, El-Hawli was injected into the game for the final quarter and sparked the Bombers come-from-behind victory with 7 disposals (3 contested), a clearance, 151m gained and 2 score involvements.
Essendon Marvel Stadium Port Adelaide
DG32 Round 3 27 Mar 2025
Port Adelaide's third debutant of 2025 is the son of former North Melbourne and Power utility Stuart Cochrane, who was snapped up in the 2024 Rookie Draft at selection 13. The first player with Tourette's syndrome to play at the elite level, Cochrane's first game was as the sub against Essendon on a Thursday night. Introduced in the final quarter, the 19-year-old took 2 marks and hit the post with one of his 2 kicks.
Port Adelaide Marvel Stadium Essendon
DG33 Round 3 29 Mar 2025
Hard-running ball-carrier who St Kilda took with its first pick (No.8) at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft. After an ultra-impressive pre-season, the 18-year-old made his senior debut against Richmond - originally as the sub but elevated into the starting 22 after captain Jack Steele (knee) was a late out. Travaglia acquitted himself superbly with 18 disposals (11 contested), 5 intercept possessions, 5 score involvements and 3 clearances.
St Kilda Marvel Stadium Richmond
DG34 Round 3 30 Mar 2025
Explosive small forward who kicked 21 goals in 20 SANFL games for Central District in 2024 and after training with the Fremantle Dockers over summer was signed in the Supplemental Selection Period. The 21-year-old debuted in the Western Derby and electrified the crowd with 2 goals in the space of 3 and a half minutes in time-on of the first quarter. Dudley finished with 10 disposals, 3 marks and 6 score involvements.
Fremantle Dockers Optus Stadium West Coast Eagles
DG35 Round 4 03 Apr 2025
A strong 2024 for Carlton's VFL side (third in the Best and Fairest) followed by an impressive pre-season led to the speedy half-forward grabbing the club's final list spot in the wake of the season-ending knee injury to Jagga Smith. White made his AFL debut in front of 82,000 fans against arch-rival Collingwood and displayed his forward craft with 10 disposals and 5 marks but unfortunately kicked only 3 behinds.
Carlton MCG Collingwood
DG36 Round 4 05 Apr 2025
A late first round selection (No.27) from the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft, the tall utility broke into North Melbourne's senior side in Round 4 for its home clash against the Sydney Swans after excellent VFL form. The 197cm teenager, playing in defence, had 10 disposals (including 4 intercept possessions) and took 3 marks before being subbed out in the third quarter of a heavy loss to the Swans.
North Melbourne Marvel Stadium Sydney Swans
DG37 Round 4 06 Apr 2025
Baptism of fire for the former Gold Coast SUNS rookie, who the West Coast Eagles snapped up during the Supplemental Selection Period after a strong summer training block with the club. Originally from the Northern Territory, the 198cm key defender debuted in an undermanned and under siege Eagles backline against the GIANTS. A long-kicking left footer, Brock had a team-best 9 intercept possessions among his 11 kicks and 5 marks.
West Coast Eagles Engie Stadium GIANTS
DG38 Round 4 06 Apr 2025
A late pick (No.65) at last year's Telstra AFL Draft, the rangy winger or forward has made the most of limited minutes in his initial outings for the West Coast Eagles. Davis, still 18 on debut, was the sub (and one of 3 debutants) against the GIANTS, having 5 disposals and 2 marks from 33% game time once introduced in the third quarter. He had identical stats from 31% game time against Carlton in his second match.
West Coast Eagles Engie Stadium GIANTS
DG39 Round 4 06 Apr 2025
Amid another rough start to a season for the rebuilding West Coast Eagles, one ray of sunshine has been the notable start to the AFL career of the young midfielder taken at pick 46 at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft. Gross had 17 disposals, an equal team-best 5 clearances and booted a massive 55m goal on debut against the powerful GIANTS and followed that by being of the side's best with 18 disposals against Carlton in Gather Round.
West Coast Eagles Engie Stadium GIANTS
DG40 Round 5 12 Apr 2025
Persistence has paid off for the classy left footer who was first picked up by Carlton in the Rookie Draft ahead of the 2024 season before being delisted at the end of the year. A second chance via the Supplemental Selection Period after a strong summer led to his AFL debut in a big win over the West Coast Eagles in Gather Round. Carroll, a rangy half-back, was solid with 12 kicks, 8 marks and 251m gained.
Carlton Adelaide Oval West Coast Eagles
DG41 Round 5 12 Apr 2025
The Western Bulldogs first selection at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft (No.20) is a highly-rated midfielder who finished runner-up in the Coates Talent League's Morrish Medal last year. Hynes cracked it for his AFL debut in Gather Round against the reigning premiers at Norwood. The 19-year-old had a quiet start at the highest level with only 3 disposals, but 2 of them were score involvements and one was a goal assist.
Western Bulldogs Norwood Oval Brisbane Lions
DG42 Round 5 13 Apr 2025
Another of Richmond's 6 first round picks (No.14) from the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft to make his AFL debut in the opening month of 2025, with the strapping key forward part of history as the only debutant across the first 2 matches to be played at Barossa Park in Gather Round. Faull endured a tough initiation against a frugal Fremantle Dockers defence, booting only a behind from his 5 kicks and 2 marks.
Richmond Barossa Park Fremantle Dockers

Debutant Batch #2

Card# Round Date DEBUTANT Club Venue Vs
DG43 ROUND 6 17 Apr 2025
The Brisbane Lions Academy product finished his schooling in Melbourne and got to play in the Coates Talent League, completing his junior days by being best afield in the 2024 Grand Final with 28 disposals and 2 goals. The Lions duly matched the Sydney Swans bid and selected him at pick 25 at the Telstra AFL Draft. He debuted as the sub against Collingwood on the Thursday night of the Easter round, having 6 disposals in just 22% time on ground.
Brisbane Lions Gabba Collingwood
DG44 ROUND 7 24 Apr 2025
Plucked from Essendon's VFL side in last year's Mid-Season Rookie Draft at pick 16, Richmond promoted the 195cm defender into its AFL side for the ANZAC Day Eve clash against Melbourne due to Noah Balta's curfew. In front of more than 71,000 fans, Gray took a stunning one-handed intercept mark late in the first quarter and had 5 kicks and 5 marks (including 4 intercepts) before being subbed off in the third quarter.
Richmond MCG Melbourne
DG45 ROUND 7 26 Apr 2025
The 198cm key defender from Western Australia finally made his AFL debut in Canberra against the GIANTS on the ANZAC Day long weekend, replacing omitted veteran Liam Jones. A first-round selection (No.13) at the 2022 Telstra AFL Draft, Busslinger had just turned 21 when he cracked it at the highest level after more than 2 years in the VFL. He acquitted himself well with 12 disposals (5 intercepts) and 4 marks in an impressive 32-point victory.
Western Bulldogs Manuka Oval GIANTS
DG46 ROUND 7 27 Apr 2025
Thumb and pelvis injuries ruined his first season as a Geelong Cat in 2024, but the Barwon Heads product made a bright start to 2025 and he forced his way into the powerful Cats line-up for the ANZAC Day weekend blockbuster against Carlton. A small forward and occasional on-baller, Wiltshire had 6 disposals and took 3 marks before being subbed off in the third quarter against the Blues. The following week he booted a crucial third quarter goal against Collingwood.
Geelong Cats MCG Carlton
DG47 ROUND 8 01 May 2025
A terrific mark, the 197cm key forward and part-time ruck was grabbed by North Melbourne with overall pick 2 at the 2023 Rookie Draft. A full season in the VFL in 2024 was followed by a senior debut at the start of May in 2025. Maley's first touch was memorable: a huge, contested mark in the forward pocket followed by a set shot snap for his first goal. He finished with 8 disposals and 3 marks (all contested) in the Kangaroos heart-breaking 3-point loss.
North Melbourne MCG Melbourne
DG48 ROUND 8 02 May 2025
Big-bodied midfielder from Western Australia who St Kilda traded up for at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft to ensure it could nab him in the third round. After impressing for Sandringham in the VFL, Boxshall made his debut on a Friday night against the Fremantle Dockers and looked at home at the top level immediately with 10 contested possessions among his 16 disposals as well as 4 clearances, 4 inside 50s and 6 tackles.
St Kilda Marvel Stadium Fremantle Dockers
DG49 ROUND 8 03 May 2025
The West Coast Eagles first pick (No.16) at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft (and the first West Australian selected) had an eventful AFL debut in the home clash against Melbourne in front of 42,000 fans. Speedy and tough, the left-footed teenager who can play half-back or midfield had 7 disposals (100% efficiency) and took 4 marks in a 32-point loss but copped a 1-game suspension for striking Demons vice-captain Jack Viney.
West Coast Eagles Optus Stadium Melbourne
DG50 ROUND 8 04 May 2025
Pocket dynamo of Fijian descent who was rookie listed by the GIANTS at the end of 2024 from their Academy. The 176cm small forward had played VFL football in both 2023 and 2024 and progressed enough to win an AFL debut in the massive clash against cross-town rivals the Sydney Swans in early May. A tackling machine, Delana laid 5 against the Swans which ranked second for the team while having 3 disposals.
GIANTS SCG Sydney Swans
DG51 ROUND 9 10 May 2025
After 2 full seasons in the VFL (including finishing runner-up in Essendon's VFL Best and Fairest in 2024), the 199cm key defender broke through for his AFL debut in Round 9 against the Sydney Swans. Hayes experienced the ultimate in extremes - he was super-impressive in having 16 disposals as the Bombers raced to a match-winning lead before rupturing the ACL in his left knee as he landed awkwardly in a marking contest late in the third quarter.
Essendon Marvel Stadium Sydney Swans
DG52 ROUND 9 10 May 2025
Medium-sized utility who Essendon snapped up at pick 6 at the 2024 Rookie Draft after an eye-catching final year of junior football with the Bendigo Pioneers and Vic Country. Three days before his 19th birthday he made his AFL debut and snapped a beautiful goal in heavy traffic on his preferred left foot early in the second quarter in an 8-point win over the Sydney Swans. Finished with 6 disposals and laid 2 tackles.
Essendon Marvel Stadium Sydney Swans
DG53 ROUND 9 11 May 2025
The opening selection of the second round of the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft (No.28) was used on the key forward from Montmorency. It was Richmond's seventh pick in its swag of early choices and the 199cm Sims was introduced at AFL level the day before his 19th birthday. He booted the Tigers first goal of the second quarter from 40m after a strong contested mark and finished with 6 kicks, 2 marks, 3 tackles and 3 hit-outs in the 2-point win over the West Coast Eagles.
Richmond MCG West Coast Eagles
DG54 ROUND 9 11 May 2025
The GIANTS had 3 picks late in the first round of the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft and it was the third of them - the slender yet speedy West Australian - who made his senior debut first in 2025. Angove, a half-forward or on-baller, forced his way into the side for the trip to Geelong, where the GIANTS continued their amazing run with a 4-point win and the teenager made a solid contribution of 13 disposals including 3 score involvements and 2 intercepts.
GIANTS GMHBA Stadium Geelong Cats
DG55 ROUND 11 23 May 2025
Dream debut in Dreamtime at the G for the versatile Clarke, who pushed forward from a wing to kick 3 first-half goals against Richmond in front of 76,000 fans. The 18-year-old South Australian was selected by Essendon at pick 39 at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft and, aside from his goals, finished with 16 disposals (14 kicks and 2 handballs), 8 marks, 522m gained, 8 score involvements and 6 inside 50s in a memorable first game.
Essendon MCG Richmond
DG56 ROUND 11 24 May 2025
A passionate Carlton fan, the 197cm key defender got to live his boyhood dream when the Blues selected him with their second pick (No.40) at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft. O'Farrell became the club's fourth debutant of 2025 when called up for the clash with the GIANTS in Round 11. A composed showing followed, with his 6 intercept possessions ranked third for the side among 9 disposals and 3 marks in a 28-point loss.
Carlton Marvel Stadium GIANTS
DG57 ROUND 11 24 May 2025
Hard running West Australian who was Collingwood's final pick (No.56) at last year's Telstra AFL Draft. While only lightly built, the half-forward or winger brings plenty of speed, energy and tackling intensity to the contest. Hayes was given his first taste of senior football against North Melbourne in late May, and he impressed in laying 6 tackles (fourth for the Magpies) to go with his 7 disposals, 3 marks and 2 score involvements in a 45-point win.
Collingwood Marvel Stadium North Melbourne
DG58 ROUND 11 24 May 2025
Perseverance has paid off for the talented midfielder who three weeks after his 22nd birthday, and in his fourth season on Port Adelaide's list, finally made his AFL debut in the wet against the Fremantle Dockers. Jackson, as the sub, replaced a concussed Darcy Byrne-Jones at half-time and had 8 disposals (2 kicks, 6 handballs), 3 score involvements, 2 clearances and 133m gained in a polished first outing.
Port Adelaide Optus Stadium Fremantle Dockers
DG59 ROUND 12 29 May 2025
Midfield gun as a junior who Essendon has developed as a defender in his first year at the club after being its final selection (No.70) at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft. The Northern Knights Best and Fairest winner last year was the Bombers seventh debutant in 2025 when promoted for a Thursday night clash at the Gabba. Johnson's 6 intercept possessions ranked second for the team and in a brave display he had 11 disposals before being subbed in the final term.
Essendon GABBA Brisbane Lions
DG60 ROUND 12 31 May 2025
Dynamic and tough midfielder who the Gold Coast SUNS snaffled in the top 10 of last year's Telstra AFL Draft after St Kilda bid on the Academy product at pick 9. Played in a VFL Premiership with the SUNS in 2023 as a 16-year-old and was introduced at the elite level in the rain against the Fremantle Dockers after overcoming a serious pre-season shoulder injury. Booted a wonderful goal, had 8 disposals and 3 clearances before being subbed off at the final change.
Gold Coast SUNS People First Stadium Fremantle Dockers
DG61 ROUND 13 06 Jun 2025
Impressive key forward from the Sunshine Coast who was a member of the Brisbane Lions Academy and snapped up by the reigning premiers at pick 42 after matching the Geelong Cats bid at last year's Telstra AFL Draft. Gallop made his debut in the huge Friday night clash against the Adelaide Crows and competed hard for his 6 disposals (4 contested), 4 tackles, 2 marks and 2 hit-outs before being subbed out in the final quarter.
Brisbane Lions Adelaide Oval Adelaide Crows
DG62 ROUND 13 07 Jun 2025
A mid-season ankle injury to No.1 ruck Kieren Briggs paved the way for the 204cm GIANTS Academy product to make his senior debut in Canberra against Port Adelaide on an icy cold Saturday night. The 21-year-old was pitted against fellow youngster Dante Visentini (playing just his 10th game) and was excellent; having 15 disposals (11 contested), 26 hit-outs, taking 2 marks, gaining 4 clearances and laying 4 tackles.
GIANTS Manuka Oval Port Adelaide
DG63 ROUND 13 08 Jun 2025
A gritty 8-point win over arch-rival Essendon on the eve of King's Birthday Monday in front of more than 74,000 at the MCG was the backdrop for the 20-year-old ruckman to make his AFL debut. The 202cm O'Keeffe had several eye-catching moments in providing strong support for Tom De Koning, taking a game-high 5 contested marks while finishing with 7 disposals, 8 hit-outs and laying 4 tackles in a promising beginning.
Carlton MCG Essendon
DG64 ROUND 13 08 Jun 2025
A second-round selection (No.39) at the 2023 Telstra AFL Draft, the speedy utility had a full season in the VFL in 2024 before Essendon introduced him at senior level halfway through the 2025 campaign. Lual debuted in the Sunday night blockbuster against Carlton and kicked the Bombers only goal of the first quarter (with his first kick at the highest level). He finished with 11 disposals (5 kicks and 6 handballs), took 3 marks and laid 5 tackles.
Essendon MCG Carlton
DG65 ROUND 14 14 Jun 2025
Lachie’s AFL debut at age 26 is a testament to perseverance. The 203cm ruckman was selected by the Bombers at pick 13 in the 2025 Mid-Season Draft after standout performances for East Fremantle in the WAFL. Blakiston performed strongly across three games, showcasing his readiness for AFL level. His journey from local footy to the MCG highlights his dedication and resilience. His first game yielded 2 kicks, 2 handballs and 1 mark.
Essendon MCG Geelong Cats
DG66 ROUND 14 14 Jun 2025
Far from an ideal result for a debut, running onto the MCG only to receive a 95-point loss to Geelong, just 17 days after being picked up in the 2025 Mid-Season Draft. The 198cm key forward, selected at pick No.6, had impressed at Subiaco with 12 goals in 6 WAFL games. On debut, May showcased his aerial prowess, recording 8 disposals, 4 marks, and 2 inside 50s, providing a promising glimpse into his potential at the elite level.
Essendon MCG Geelong Cats
DG67 ROUND 14 15 Jun 2025
Liddy’s AFL debut for Port Adelaide capped an inspiring rise from full-time tradie to SANFL standout to elite level. Just 18 days after being selected at pick No.16 in the Mid-Season Draft, the 23-year-old midfielder—who had recently claimed the Fos Williams Medal for best afield in the SANFL state game—was thrust into the Power’s engine room against Melbourne. Liddy delivered 10 disposals (7 kicks, 3 handballs), 3 marks, 2 tackles, and a clearance in a composed first outing at Adelaide Oval.
Port Adelaide Adelaide Oval Melbourne
DG68 ROUND 14 15 Jun 2025
An AFL appearance just 18 days after being taken with pick No.1 in the Mid-Season Draft completes the 24-year-old former Richmond VFL defender's meteoric ascension from suburban footy to the elite level. Lining up against the Blues at Optus Stadium, McCarthy delivered a scintillating performance off half-back, collecting 31 disposals, 7 marks, and 5 rebound 50s—setting a new club record for most touches on debut.
West Coast Eagles Optus Stadium Carlton
DG69 ROUND 15 19 Jun 2025
The teenage giant was handed an incredibly tough task for his AFL debut - a date with Fremantle Docker star Luke Jackson in a big Thursday night clash in Perth. And while Jackson was one of the best afield, the 203cm Visentini acquitted himself superbly in an ultra-competitive showing for the undermanned Essendon. The 19-year-old had 15 disposals (including 5 intercept possessions), had 4 clearances, took 3 marks, laid 2 tackles and had 17 hit-outs.
Essendon Optus Oval Fremanrle Dockers
DG70 ROUND 15 21 Jun 2025
Injury and suspension delayed the AFL debut of the highly touted No.10 pick from last year's Telstra AFL Draft but he was unleashed against the ladder leaders on a Saturday night at Marvel Stadium. The 193cm athletic defender was composed and combative, having 9 disposals and taking 6 marks (including 2 intercepts) as St Kilda stretched Collingwood for 3 and a half quarters. As he develops, Tauru has the versatility and ability to play in multiple positions.
St Kilda Marvel Stadium Collingwood
DG71 ROUND 15 22 Jun 2025
Clever forward who rounded out Richmond's impressive Telstra AFL Draft haul in 2024 when he was snapped up by the Tigers at pick 58. Wearing the number made famous by Kevin Bartlett (29), Alger worked his way into the senior line-up in late June after booting 15 goals in 10 VFL games. The League-wide trend of debutants being the sub continued, and he was introduced in the third quarter against the Western Bulldogs. He had 3 handballs and laid a tackle.
Richmond Marvel Stadium Western Bulldogs

Debutant Batch #3

Card# Round Date DEBUTANT Club Venue Vs
DG72 ROUND 16 26 Jun 2025
Classy, rebounding half-back who made his AFL debut 10 days after his 20th birthday on a tough night for Carlton as Port Adelaide pounded the Blues by 50 points. Wilson, who was the No.34 pick at the 2023 Telstra AFL Draft, had 7 disposals and laid 2 tackles in his first taste at the elite level and while he went straight back to the VFL, he continued as one of the most impressive young Blues in the state-level competition.
Carlton Adelaide Oval Port Adelaide
DG73 ROUND 16 26 Jun 2025
Mature-aged (23) Premiership player from VFL side Werribee who Carlton snapped up with its sole pick (No.4) at the 2025 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. A medium forward with a damaging left boot and an appetite for goals, Young was soon in the senior side, playing his first game as the sub on a Thursday night against Port Adelaide and having 5 disposals (including 3 inside 50s) in the second half.
Carlton Adelaide Oval Port Adelaide
DG74 ROUND 16 28 Jun 2025
Exciting key forward who Collingwood landed with the overall No.50 selection at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft. The teenager booted 25 goals in 10 VFL games before being picked for his debut in Round 16 against the West Coast Eagles. Early in the second quarter, with West's only kick, he snapped a left-foot goal after contesting a mark at the top of the goal square. Was sidelined with a serious foot injury immediately after his debut.
Collingwood Marvel Stadium West Coast Eagles
DG75 ROUND 16 28 Jun 2025
The West Coast Eagles second pick (No.30) at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft is an impressive key forward who matched up on Collingwood Premiership captain Darcy Moore in his first game and acquitted himself well (8 disposals at 100% efficiency and 3 marks), including a brilliant, long-range goal from a tough angle. Six days later he had 14 disposals and was the Eagles only multiple goalkicker (2) against the GIANTS in Perth.
West Coast Eagles Marvel Stadium Collingwood
DG76 ROUND 17 04 Jul 2025
Originally from Victoria (he played for Casey in the VFL between 2022 and 2024), the hard-running winger played so well for West Perth in the WAFL in the first half of 2025 that Collingwood took him at pick 8 in the Mid-Season Rookie Draft. Steele produced an eye-catching debut in front of almost 76,000 fans against Carlton with 19 disposals and covering 15.2km (the most of any player). He had 4 inside 50s and 3 score involvements as well.
Collingwood MCG Carlton
DG77 ROUND 17 04 Jul 2025
Dynamic small forward who the West Coast Eagles added to their Rookie list at the end of 2024 after being a member of the club's Next Generation Academy. Champion pieced together a strong Eagles WAFL campaign before being elevated to AFL level for a Friday night home game against the GIANTS. The 19-year-old was named sub and played the second half, having 6 disposals, including 3 inside 50s, and 158m gained.
West Coast Eagles Optus Stadium GWS Giants
DG78 ROUND 17 05 Jul 2025
The Gold Coast SUNS needing key defence reinforcements saw the club take the former St Kilda-listed backman and 2024 Glenelg Premiership star in the Mid-Season Rookie Draft (pick 7), and he made his AFL debut when replacing injured vice-captain Sam Collins in early July. Adams had 9 disposals (including 3 intercepts) and took 2 marks in a 41-point win over Essendon and retained his place in the strong SUNS line-up thereafter.
Gold Coast Suns Marvel Stadium Essendon
DG79 ROUND 17 05 Jul 2025
Strong, inside midfielder who had a traditional Geelong Cats apprenticeship (a season and a half at VFL level) before playing his maiden AFL game against Richmond at GMHBA Stadium. The powerful 20-year-old slotted straight into the team's engine room with a fabulous display, having 21 disposals, a match-best 14 score involvements, a game-high 8 clearances, a goal and 2 goal assists to kick-start what should be a long career.
Geelong Cats GMHBA Richmond
DG80 ROUND 18 12 Jul 2025
Silky-skilled on-baller and forward who had a delayed start to his AFL journey after requiring a knee reconstruction in his final year of junior football. Richmond swooped on the highly regarded Hotton with overall pick 12 at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft and he debuted in front of more than 52,000 fans against Essendon. A first quarter goal in the wake of a fine mark and 10 disposals (6 contested) gave a small insight into the special talent he is.
Richmond MCG Essendon
DG81 ROUND 18 12 Jul 2025
With the penultimate selection in the 2025 Mid-Season Rookie Draft, Essendon added the lively small forward to its list after showing exceptional development in the Bombers VFL set-up across the 2024 and 2025 campaigns. Smartt became the club's 12th debutant of the season against Richmond in Round 18, having 6 kicks (including 3 inside 50s), taking 2 marks and laying 3 tackles (all inside forward 50) in a narrow loss.
Essendon MCG Richmond
DG82 ROUND 18 13 Jul 2025
The tallest player (204cm) on St Kilda's list finally broke through for a much-deserved AFL debut 4 years after being taken by the Saints at the 2021 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. Still only 22, the aggressive ruck and key forward performed admirably in a heartbreaking 5-point loss to the Sydney Swans with 8 disposals, 10 hit-outs, 6 tackles, 6 score involvements, 3 clearances and the first goal of the second half.
St Kilda Marvel Stadium Sydney Swans
DG83 ROUND 19 17 Jul 2025
A late-season gem for Essendon, with the injury-ravaged Bombers taking the tall, athletic forward from Carlton's VFL program with the final pick (No.18) in the 2025 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. At one stage, in a bizarre statistical quirk, McMahon was leading goalkicker for both the Blues and Bombers VFL sides. On debut, the 23-year-old kicked his side's first 2 goals against the GIANTS and did the same thing the following week against the Western Bulldogs.
Essendon Marvel Stadium GWS Giants
DG84 ROUND 19 19 Jul 2025
The pint-sized forward is another of Werribee's 2024 VFL Premiership stars and North Melbourne used the overall No.2 pick at this year's Mid-Season Rookie Draft to grab the 22-year-old. Banch was given his first chance at the highest level in Round 19 as the Kangaroos sub in a competitive showing against the Sydney Swans. He played a full game the following week against the powerful Geelong Cats and had 10 disposals and took 6 marks.
North Melbourne SCG Sydney Swans
DG85 ROUND 19 20 Jul 2025
Impressive VFL form for Coburg and then Southport, followed by a strong pre-season training with the Gold Coast SUNS saw the 23-year-old on-baller grab the final spot on the club's list via the supplementary selection period. Jepson continued his fine form at the lower level and forced his way into the senior line-up in late July. On a tough night for the SUNS against the rampaging Adelaide Crows, he had 12 disposals at 83% efficiency.
Gold Coast SUNS Adelaide Oval Adelaide Crows
DG86 ROUND 21 03 Aug 2025
A solid SANFL campaign resulted in the 200cm teenager being awarded his AFL debut late in 2025 for one of the toughest road trips in football (GMHBA Stadium). Whitlock, taken with Port Adelaide's second pick (No.33) at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft, is an athletic key forward and had 3 kicks, 2 marks and laid 4 tackles against the Geelong Cats. Showed his class in his third game as the Power's only multiple goalkicker with 3 against Carlton.
Port Adelaide GMHBA Geelong Cats
DG87 ROUND 21 02 Aug 2025
The speedy backman created history as Essendon's 14th debutant in 2025, becoming the first player of Vietnamese descent to reach AFL level. Nguyen, a product of the Bombers Next Generation Academy, was promoted to the seniors a week after his 19th birthday at the start of August and held his position for the final 5 games of the season. In his first game he had 5 disposals and laid 3 tackles in a narrow loss to the Sydney Swans.
Essendon SCG Sydney Swans
DG88 ROUND 21 02 Aug 2025
The Sydney Swans first selection (No.22) at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft had to wait until the beginning of August (5 days before his 19th birthday) to make his AFL debut. A pre-season stress fracture in his back had delayed his VFL debut until late May but he worked his way into AFL contention and was impressive in his first game with 13 disposals, 5 marks and 2 goal assists in a 14-point victory over Essendon.
Sydney Swans SCG Essendon
DG89 ROUND 22 10 Aug 2025
Exciting tall forward who was the most positive individual story at North Melbourne in the second half of 2025 after the Kangaroos plucked him from their VFL program at pick 10 at the Mid-Season Rookie Draft. Trembath played the final 3 games of the year, kicking 3 goals in each and then signing a 12-month contract extension. On debut, the 193cm teenager booted 3.1 from 4 kicks against the GIANTS in Canberra.
North Melbourne Manuka Oval GWS Giants
DG90 ROUND 22 10 Aug 2025
Patience and hard work paid off late in 2025 for the versatile utility, who debuted in the third-last round after being selected by North Melbourne with pick 1 at the 2024 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. From North Launceston, Payne had 6 disposals and booted a goal against the GIANTS in the nation's capital in his first match and the following slotted 2 majors from his 8 disposals in the Kangaroos big win over Richmond in Hobart.
North Melbourne Manuka Oval GWS Giants
DG91 ROUND 22 10 Aug 2025
Rangy key defender who had to wait until late in his third season on Melbourne's senior list - and after clocking up 51 VFL games - to get an AFL debut (in Troy Chaplin's first game as interim senior coach). Adams, a 21-year-old West Australian, got his taste at the highest level in a cracking game against the Western Bulldogs, having 5 disposals (3 intercepts), taking 2 marks and laying 3 tackles in a 6-point defeat.
Melbourne MCG Western Bulldogs
DG92 ROUND 23 15 Aug 2025
A late pick (No.61) at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft, Essendon swooped on the pacy left footer who can play forward, back and midfield, and after 16 VFL games in his maiden campaign broke into the senior side in Round 23 to be the Bombers 15th debutant of 2025. The lively Unwin energised his team in booting a first quarter goal and finished with 9 disposals, 2 marks and a clearance in an agonising 2-point loss to St Kilda.
Essendon Marvel Stadium St Kilda
DG93 ROUND 23 15 Aug 2025
The No.1 ruck from the 2024 Under-18 All-Australian team was a slider in the Telstra AFL Draft and St Kilda was delighted to snap up the 203cm South Australian at pick 53. What at times was an eye-catching development year in the VFL graduated to an AFL debut in the penultimate round, with Dodson impressing with 8 disposals and 2 marks in the first half against Essendon before being subbed. Possesses all the tools for a long career.
St Kilda Marvel Stadium Essendon
DG94 ROUND 23 15 Aug 2025
Mature-aged recruit who was already a SANFL Premiership player with Woodville-West Torrens when the Brisbane Lions grabbed him at pick 17 at the 2024 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. A dashing and classy defender, Beecken excelled at VFL level for over a year before debuting in Perth as the sub in a crunch clash with the Fremantle Dockers. He replaced the injured Jarrod Berry in the final quarter and had 3 disposals in 11% time on ground.
Brisbane Lions Optus Stadium Fremantle
DG95 ROUND 23 17 Aug 2025
Another highly touted father-son selection snaffled by the Western Bulldogs, who joined the club his father Matthew played 186 games for via pick 15 at the 2023 Telstra AFL Draft. After an injury-riddled first season, the 201cm key forward played his way into the senior side late in 2025, kicking 2 goals in each of his first 2 games against both West Australian clubs at Marvel Stadium. A star of the future.
Western Bulldogs Marvel Stadium West Coast Eagles
DG96 ROUND 23 17 Aug 2025
Powerful and speedy forward who the West Coast Eagles took from SANFL club Norwood with pick 9 at the 2025 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. Newton impressed enough at WAFL level to be elevated to the AFL for the final 2 rounds of the year. The 19-year-old was the sub for his debut against the Western Bulldogs before getting a full game against the Sydney Swans and kicking a goal from 5 kicks while also laying 3 tackles.
West Coast Eagles Marvel Stadium Western Bulldogs
DG97 ROUND 24 22 Aug 2025
Tall (202cm) and athletic, Port Adelaide took the teenage key defender with the third selection at the 2025 Mid-Season Rookie Draft. Ramm came into the senior line-up for the final round, the emotion-charged farewell to coach Ken Hinkley games record holder Travis Boak. He had 5 kicks, took 4 marks and laid 2 tackles as part of a stingy defence that restricted the Gold Coast SUNS to 9 goals as the Power won a thriller by 4 points.
Port Adelaide Adelaide Oval Gold Coast Suns
DG98 ROUND 24 22 Aug 2025
The pacy on-baller and half-forward joined Port Adelaide via the 2025 Mid-Season Rookie Draft (pick 11) after consistently strong form for North Adelaide in the SANFL. A mature-aged recruit (he turned 22 in July), Mackinlay was given his first taste of AFL football in the final round against the Gold Coast SUNS. He enjoyed an excellent debut in the 4-point win with 15 disposals (12 kicks and 3 handballs), 4 tackles, 2 clearances and a goal.
Port Adelaide Adelaide Oval Gold Coast Suns
DG99 ROUND 24 22 Aug 2025
Gold Coast SUNS Academy product from local club Burleigh who was added to the club's rookie list at the end of 2024. A natural forward, Gulbin became the SUNS fourth debutant of this season after developing his craft in 15 VFL outings. Promoted for the Friday night clash against Port Adelaide, the 18-year-old ranked equal fourth for the team for tackles (5) while having 9 disposals (including 3 inside 50s) and taking 4 marks.
Gold Coast SUNS Adelaide Oval Port Adelaide
DG100 ROUND 24 23 Aug 2025
Hardy half-back or on-baller who the West Coast Eagles selected at pick 48 at the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft after an excellent final junior season captaining the Western Jets in the Coates Talent League. A WAFL season of substance led the teenager to being elevated for the Eagles final game of 2025 to become the club's 10th debutant of the year. Grego displayed all his promise with 14 disposals and 5 marks against the Sydney Swans.
West Coast Eagles Optus Stadium Sydney Swans