The Western Bulldogs may consider giving 2022 high draft pick Jedd Busslinger his AFL debut after key defender Alex Keath went down with a hamstring injury in last night's loss.
Keath's injury, coupled with other setbacks in the Bulldogs' defense, presents a golden chance for the 20-year-old to showcase his talents on the senior stage.
Busslinger, who was the 13th overall pick in the 2022 National Draft, has been making significant strides in the VFL.
The East Perth prodigy has been consistently impressing this year, especially recently, collecting 27 disposals and 10 marks against Brisbane yesterday, and 24 disposals and 11 marks the week prior against Collingwood.
Over nine games this season, Busslinger is averaging 20 disposals and 8 marks, a marked improvement from his 2023 debut VFL season where he put 15 disposals and six marks per match.
Known for being proactive with his strong hands and impressive aerial abilities, Busslinger has demonstrated he can be a regular ball-getter and an effective interceptor.
His efforts have not gone unnoticed, with the Bulldogs already offering a contract extension as he approaches the end of his initial two-year deal. Despite the offer, Busslinger is yet to sign, perhaps fueling future speculation about a potential move back to his home state of Western Australia.
With Keath likely sidelined, Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge will have to comtemplate Busslinger's inclusion to bolster the defensive and tall stocks that have been further depleted by injuries to Luke Cleary and Jordan Croft.
"Alex Keath was taken out with a hamstring injury, the Dogs will send him for scans tomorrow. The early word is it's likely a strain so he will likely miss (next week)."@cleary_mitch with some injury news out of tonight's game. pic.twitter.com/ckwPru6bUS
— 7AFL (@7AFL) June 7, 2024
"He came off with a hamstring injury. It looks like we are likely to lose him," Beveridge said regarding Keath.
"The attrition rate is not great at the moment but the boys are hanging in there. I think they are doing a mighty job."
Busslinger's AFL debut could come as the Bulldogs face the Dockers, providing the young defender a chance to step up and fill the void left by Keath on emerging star Jye Amiss.
If given the opportunity, Busslinger will look to transfer his VFL form to the AFL, solidifying his place in the team and possibly securing his future with the Bulldogs.
