Essendon's No.1 draft pick Andrew McGrath has been named the AFL Rising Star for the 2017 season.
McGrath finished on 51 votes, ahead of favourite Ryan Burton on 41 votes, with Sam Powell-Pepper (35) rounding out the top three.
The 19-year-old played 20 games in his debut season, averaging 19.6 disposals, 2.6 tackles, and 2.3 rebound fifties.
- Andrew McGrath (Essendon) - 51 votes
- Ryan Burton (Hawthorn) - 41 votes
- Sam Powell-Pepper (Port Adelaide) - 35 votes
- Charlie Curnow (Carlton) - 27 votes
- Eric Hipwood (Brisbane) - 6 votes
"Iโd like to congratulate all the boys. They all had great years," McGrath after the win.
"To the Essendon Football Club, it is an honour to be part of it. The coaching staff have been great for putting their trust in me. The playing group have welcomed me with open arms since day one.
"I am pretty privileged to be part of the Essendon Football Club. To be part of a year that I have, it is great. To be playing next Saturday will be exciting and a long time coming.
"To my past clubs, you have all been pivotal in my development. I canโt thank you enough."
McGrath becomes the first No.1 draft pick to win the award in 12 years.