Jacob Blight, signed by Richmond 32 days ago in the Mid-Season Rookie Draft, will make his AFL debut this Sunday's blockbuster clash wth Carlton. The 196cm defender was taken at pick two from the Peel Thunder in the WAFL.
Richmond recruiters were impressed by Blight's competitiveness, aerial skills, and defensive accountability, earning him a gig at the highest level soon after selection.
The time is right for Blight 👏
Mid-season draftee Jacob Blight will make his AFL debut this Sunday.
— Richmond FC 🐯 (@Richmond_FC) June 27, 2024
Before joining Richmond, the 22-year-old excelled at state-level for the WAFL against SANFL at Optus Stadium, taking seven intercept marks and 17 disposals.
He has smoothly transitioned to Tigerland, averaging 18.6 disposals, 7.6 marks, and 5.6 inside-50s in three games, earning coaches' votes in two VFL outings.
VFL coach Steve Morris praised the youngster for quickly establishing himself in VFL footy, highlighting a strong performance recently against Box Hill and describing him as a "wall down back."
"He's just a wonderful kid to work with... (he's) fitted into the group really well,” Morris told Richmond Media about the WAFL recruit
"He's a big body that's going to help us moving forward."
"I thought he gave us an opportunity to win the game by really reducing the impact of their tall forwards," he added on his standout performance.
"He took a number of intercept marks, and his defence was really solid on the day."
He will replace Dylan Grimes in defence, who was recently sidelined for the season as he undergoes back surgery.
Supported by in-form stalwarts Nick Vlastuin and Ben Miller, he will be in for a great challenge up against the most potent key-forward duo in the competition with Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay.
