Pick 2 AFL Draft selection Colby McKercher is already turning heads at North Melbourne, with the Tasmanian talent set to flex his ball-winning nous and speed via an expected role across half-back under Alastair Clarkson this season.
Much like new teammate Harry Sheezel and another Rising Star winner in Collingwood's Nick Daicos, a roaming role in defence for McKercher could be the best avenue to start the teenager's career in the blue and white.
McKercher, who claimed the Morrish Medal last year with Tasmania by averaging 31.7 disposals per game in midfield, is a scintillating prospect for the Roos with his pace and evasiveness.
Just months into his first AFL pre-season, the Launceston junior has already begun "dominating training" at La Trobe over the summer, earning plenty of plaudits from his skipper.
"You don't see too many first-year draftees come into the club (like he has). You sit back and watch training and go 'holy crap'," North Melbourne co-captain Jy Simpkin told media on Tuesday.
"He's dominating training out there, so that's awesome to see.
"... I'd be very surprised if he wasn't in the team.
"He's one of those players who can play mid, back forward or on the wing. He's been playing a bit of half-back as that rebound defender and he's been going really well."
New Kangaroos defensive coach Jed Adcock has also taken notice of McKercher, with the former Brisbane captain keen to get a closer look at the young star within his backline ranks.
Adcock made note of the impact players like Sheezel and McKercher can have with some freedom in defence, tipping the latter to fill multiple roles in his maiden season.
"He's had a really strong pre-season with some things he does," Adcock said.
"The way he moves and the way he's able to deliver the footy, there's probably a reason why you're drafted at pick two. He moves well.
"I'm sure he'll float between a few (positions). He's one of those players, along with a Harry Sheezel, that are quite flexible and can play all over the field and there might be times where that happens.
"People say half-back is the easier position to play and it's generally because the ball is in front of you all of the time, so it's easier to cut angles and see where the play is moving. You can almost sta in line with the ball.
"At half-forward, the ball gets kicked over your head a lot, so you're having to turn around and chase back and you don't always get the benefit of having the ball in hand.
"The theory is with half-back that it's easier (to find the ball). You saw it with Nick Daicos and Sheezel and you might see it with Colby."
McKercher's first look in a Roos jumper will likely come against reigning premiers Collingwood at a newly-surfaced Arden Street Oval on February 21 as part of the club's pre-season schedule. A second hitout against St Kilda is scheduled for the following Sunday.
North Melbourne's second season under Clarkson will get underway on Saturday, March 16 against GWS at GIANTS Stadium.
