Essendon will blood its fifth AFL debutant this season with the unveiling of No.10 draft pick Zach Reid.
The first-year defender will run out in the famous No.31 against Brisbane at the Gabba on Saturday night, marking 2170 days since the number was last worn in Dustin Fletcher's 400th and final game.
Hailing from Leongatha, the 202cm Reid was plucked from Gippsland Power with the Bombers' third top-10 selection.
The 19-year-old possesses laser-sharp skills, athleticism, aerial prowess and footy smarts, shining as a stopper or half-back.
His talents aren't just limited to defence, however, with Reid showing his capabilities as a forward and pinch-hitting ruckman in his junior career.
"He was the best player available in our opinion at the time," general manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said during last year's draft.
"We set out in this draft to make sure that the spine of the club was going to be in shape for the next 10 years.
"He's a fabulous player. He's got a lot of Dustin Fletcher about him, and some say (Harris) Andrews from the Brisbane Lions also."
Reid will become the 1178th player to don the sash, joining fellow 2021 AFL debutants Harrison Jones, Nik Cox, Archie Perkins and Alec Waterman.
ZACH REID AT A GLANCE:
Position: Key defender/utility
Recruited from: Gippsland Power/Victoria
Height: 202cm
Weight: 83kg
DOB: March 2, 2002
Key strengths: Vertical leap, aerial ability, skills
Key stat: Averaged 75 per cent kicking efficiency in 2019 NAB League
