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.
Dyson Sharp (Essendon)
Another Bomber draftee who joins his childhood club.
One of the toughest operators in his draft class, Sharp's contested work and his clean hands in traffic have made him arguably the standout inside player amongst the crop, and will ease the pressure on Sam Durham and Jye Caldwell.
A South Australian, Adelaide came hard for Essendon's pick to retain the local product, but the Victorian club was steadfast in ensuring he made the switch across state lines.
The Bombers' need for midfield depth and high-end talent through the position means Sharp is in shot to face Hawthorn in Round 1.
His experience in the SANFL against matrue bodies will bode will for his debut chances, while the fear surrounding Nic Martin's availability (knee injury) could also further his ambitions.
