Richmond co-captain Dylan Grimes has backed rookie Tylar Young to be primed for selection ahead of Richmond's season opener against Carlton next week.
With Robbie Tarrant and Josh Gibcus officially ruled out of Round 1 due to a hip injury, Grimes told 3AW he "wouldn't be surprised" if Young is chosen to take on Carlton's in-form twin towers and the league's past two Coleman Medal recipients, Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay.
"I think he's done everything he can to put his hand up nice and high for selection," Grimes said.
"He's not far off after what he's done already to key forwards over the community and intraclub matches, (Young) has been impressive, I wouldn't be surprised either way.
"The rate of improvement in the professional program after getting drafted has been enormous, he's been really impressive in what he's been able to do over what has been a really short professional career so far."
Young crossed from Frankston to Richmond in the VFL in 2022, playing 14 games as a key defender across the season to impress recruiters and land an AFL list spot.
Richmond used its second selection, pick no.26, in the rookie draft to recruit Young.
Young is listed as a key defender, having showmn an ability to cover an array of opponents while also having a promising intercept game.
Richmond will kick off the 2023 AFL Season on March 16 against Carlton at 7:20pm (AEDT) at the MCG.
