Round 1 of the new season introduced the league to a bunch of fresh faces as many rookies made their long-awaited debut.
From draftees to mature-aged recruits, these new players were thrown right into the thick of things from the get-go. The first round of the 2022 season was more than eventful, and had plenty to offer in terms of action and drama, meaning the debutants needed to step up if they wanted to stand out amongst the league's best. And that they did. But which rookies stood out the most?
For ourย power ranking, we are taking a look at players who have only just made their debut this season. Other players who may still be eligible for a Rising Star nomination but have already made their debut previously will not be considered.
Round 1 Honourable Mentions:
Connor MacDonald (Hawthorn) - 16 disposals, 6 contested possessions, three marks
Jackson Mead - (Port Adelaide) - 10 disposals, two marks, three tackles
Kaine Baldwin - (Essendon) - seven disposals, three marks
Angus Sheldrick - (Sydney - eight disposals, one mark
3. Jack Hayes
The mature-aged rookie has waited a long time to get drafted to an AFL list, and put on quite the show in his debut game to reward the Saints for picking him up.
The 25-year-old put on an aerial masterclass, looking almost unstoppable in the air with every ball seemingly sticking to his hands. The key forward also did his job on the scoresheet, looking very dangerous in front of goal.
Although the Saints fell short, Hayes was arguably one of the best players on the ground, recording 10 marks, scoring three goals while also racking up 18 disposals.
Forward
Goals
Marks
Tackles
