Each AFL season produces a new wave of emerging talent, with young players taking significant strides as they establish themselves at the top level.
Whether it's a first-year player, a former high draft pick beginning to fulfil their potential, or an underrated player ready to take on a bigger role, every club has someone poised to make a major impact.
Here is every club's bolter for season 2027.
Carlton
Harry Dean
Absolute star in the making. Harry Dean, son of two-time premiership Carlton player Peter Dean, has taken the AFL world by storm this season. He has been praised by many for his ability to read the play and place himself in the best spots to impact the game, something not often seen by young backmen.
Ex Adelaide Crows captain Rory Sloane weighed in on Dean's performances on Footy Classified, believing he will be the NAB Rising Star ahead of teammate Jagga Smith. “Defence wins premierships and games, and I value that position”, Sloane said.
“He is the rising star for me; some of his scalps this year have been incredible.”
Having the likes of Jacob Weitering and Nick Haynes alongside him can only help grow the young defender into a key position player for years to come and become a top player next season.
