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<\/a><\/p>\nAfter the completion of the 2025 AFL Draft<\/a>, which saw 84 players selected by top-flight clubs, many fans and analysts have begun evaluating the potential of these draftees to leave an early mark.<\/p>\n While a pre-season is still ahead of us, there are already several prospects who are considered ready for the elite level of competition.<\/p>\n We highlight eight of the top candidates likely to make their debut in the early stages of the 2026 season.<\/p>\n Willem Duursma (West Coast)<\/p>\n There’s no surprise that the No.1 Pick from the 2025 draft makes this list, given he joins the wooden spooners.<\/p>\n But Willem Duursma<\/a> is ready to make his AFL<\/a> debut as early as possible, with the rangy talent showcasing his top-flight readiness throughout his draft year, ultimately culminating in becoming the top selection.<\/p>\n The Eagles are desperate to get high-end talent in, and Duursma is exactly that, but will likely begin his career across halfback.<\/p>\n Embed from Getty Images<\/a><\/p>\n The Gippsland Power product has displayed its capacity to play on all three lines, but will be eased into the jump up to AFL<\/a> football before making moves to other areas of the ground.<\/p>\n Duursma could be seen debuting against Gold Coast in Round 1.<\/p>\n