The future is here: Carlton announces two debutants for Sydney clash

A pair of pick threes will make their debuts in the AFL's season opener.

Carlton announced on Tuesday morning that young gun Jagga Smith, fresh off his dominant 37-disposal performance against grand finalist Geelong, will play his first senior game against Sydney in Opening Round on Thursday night.

The young gun will be joined on debut by 2025 father-son selection Harry Dean who has impressed in his first pre-season in navy blue.

Having both been selected with the number three pick in consecutive national drafts (2024 and 2025) the duo's joint debut marks a new dawn at Princes Park as coach Michael Voss and his chargers look to move on from a disastrous and low-achieving 2025.

While most of the attention for the Opening Round clash against Sydney will be focused on the performance and impact of Blue-turned-Swan Charlie Curnow, the arrival of Carlton's next generation will be a must-watch for fans.

Smith's first season was marred by an ACL injury which occurred just over one year ago during a practice match against St Kilda.

Dean, despite being a developing 193cm key defender, has quickly made an impact at Carlton and has featured in both practice games prior to his Opening Round start.

Blues prodigy Smith was arguably best-on-ground against the Cats last Wednesday, kicking a goal in front of the home crowd while also demonstrating his speed and dynamic movement.

Dean also showed he was more than capable at the level collecting 11 disposals and five marks in defence.

News on the fitness of fellow key defender and co-vice captain Jacob Weitering after he was injured in the State of Origin clash has yet to be announced by the club with the full Carlton squad set to be released on Wednesday night.