The class of emerging future stars was evident in 2021, with a host of young names breaking onto the AFL stage and showing plenty of promise for the roads ahead.
Looking at players to have made their debut this season, we list the 10 players to have had the strongest campaigns after finally breaking through to the top flight.
8. Nik Cox (Essendon)
Debut:Â Round 1 vs Hawthorn
Games:Â 22
Proving to be capable of just about any task required from Ben Rutten, Nik Cox quickly emerged as a sensational pickup for the Bombers from last year's draft.
Cox played 22 games in 2021 across roles on the wing, in the ruck, down forward and in defence.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Inside50s
The 199cm-tall utility was seen as the Rising Star favourite in the opening half of the year before losing his lead to the likes of Luke Jackson and Tom Green.
With his raw talent and high upside, Cox could be a sensational commodity for the Bombers as they look to snap their winless finals run.
