With pre-season chatter comes selection watch, with AFL fans keen to see who could be locking down starting spots at their best clubs for the season ahead.
Discussions over potential debutants play their part in the intrigue, with each hoping to uncover an uncapped player who can have an impact in 2025.
A total of 76 players made their AFL debuts in 2024, and with the number of options yet to get a look at the top level ahead of the coming campaign, that figure could be beaten in 2025.
Here we list every player yet to make their AFL debut and name the players most likely to play their maiden match this year.
Essendon
Rookies: Archer Day-Wicks, Jayden Nguyen, Zak Johnson, Rhys Unwin, Angus Clarke, Kayle Gerreyn, Isaac Kako
Still waiting: Saad El-Hawli, Vigo Visentini, Luamon Lual, Lewis Hayes
Most likely to debut in 2025:ย NGA product Isaac Kako could be an Opening Round starter given Essendon's need for ground level forward options to start the new season. His pressure and goal sense will be a welcomed addition after the loss of Jake Stringer and amid injury concern for Matt Guelfi. You can almost guarantee mid-year addition Saad El-Hawli will get a look at AFL action this year should he remain fit, with the flanker a dominant force at the state league level in 2024 with the Northern Bullants and Essendon.
