Essendon has reached new heights after naming Rhys Unwin as the club's 15th debutant of the 2025 season.

The Bombers have been decimated by injuries, which has given coach Brad Scott the opportunity to delve into his youthful kitbag to field a team.

Captain Zach Merrett (hand) and MSD prospect Archer May (ankle) were both withdrawn from the side that lost to Geelong last week.

Kyle Langford will be available for selection after returning through the reserves last week.

Unwin was drafted with Pick 61 in the 2024 National Draft as a small forward with genuine speed and craft inside 50.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 09: Rhys Unwin of the Bombers challenges Jaxon Prior of the Bombers during an Essendon Bombers AFL training session at The Hangar on April 09, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 09: Rhys Unwin of the Bombers challenges Jaxon Prior of the Bombers during an Essendon Bombers AFL training session at The Hangar on April 09, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

The left-footer has played 16 games in the VFL for Essendon, averaging 11.5 disposals, 2.2 marks and 2.4 tackles, as well as slotted eight goals.

Unwin's best performance came a fortnight ago, where he collected 24 possessions, four tackles and a goal.

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"I didn't really expect the news to come this morning, but when I went up to Scotty's office and was told the news, I was just super excited. The boys all got around me and were super supportive, which was great," Unwin said.
"Each week it's been one foot in front of the other and putting the work in, so I'm just super grateful for the opportunity to now be making my debut.
"I've heard there are a fair few Cobden people coming down for the game, so hopefully we can get the win for them all and for the Bomber fans."

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