After the completion of the 2025 AFL Draft, which saw 84 players selected by top-flight clubs, many fans and analysts have begun evaluating the potential of these draftees to leave an early mark.
While a pre-season is still ahead of us, there are already several prospects who are considered ready for the elite level of competition.
We highlight eight of the top candidates likely to make their debut in the early stages of the 2026 season.
Harry Dean (Carlton)
The Blues were so excited by the development of the father-son prospect, and ensured they accumulated enough draft points to match any bid for Dean.
The key defender will slot straight into Michael Voss' backline, which currently possesses a group of veterans, headed by Jacob Weitering.
Voss consistently tinkered with the make-up of his defensive group throughout 2025 aside from Weitering, meaning a spot will be up for grabs for Dean to assume.
The departure of Jack Silvagni furthers the premise of Dean making a very early debut, which could come in Opening Round against Sydney.
