Essendon legend Matthew Lloyd has revealed his top seven surprise performances from Round 1 of the AFL season.

Lloyd looked at players who aren't necessarily stars of the game just yet, but who turned it on for their side during the opening weekend.

Geelong's Rhys Stanley, GWS' Lachie Keefee, Western Bulldog Aaron Naughton and Port Adelaide's Jack Watts were all listed, although Lloyd believed three stood out about the rest.

Brisbane's Lincoln McCarthy collected 11 disposals to go along with four goals against the reigning premiers, in his debut game for the Lions.

Hawthorn's James Worpel stepped up in the absence of Tom Mitchell on Saturday against Adelaide, amassing 27 disposals, 12 contested possessions, six clearances and two goals.

However, no performance was more dominant and more surprising than Fremantle's Cam McCarthy, who stole the show during their big win over North Melbourne.

McCarthy had 20 disposals, took five marks and booted five goals in the 82-point win, stepping up in the absence of new recruit Jesse Hogan.