Essendon will unveil its sixth AFL debutant this season, with second-year ruckman Nick Bryan a confirmed starter for Sunday's clash with Carlton at the MCG.

The 19-year-old earns his opportunity after starring in the Bombers' opening two VFL games, where he's averaged 20 disposals and 32 hitouts, and will replace injured ruckman Andrew Phillips, who hasn't recovered from a knock sustained in Sunday's Anzac Day win.

Taken at pick No.38 as the tallest player in the 2019 NAB AFL Draft, the 202cm Bryan took the mantle as Vic Metro's No.1 ruckman in his draft year.

He spent his debut AFL year honing his ruck craft in the Bombers' scratch matches in Queensland, while also impressing in stints in defence.

Essendon VFL senior assistant coach and senior development coach Cameron Roberts has worked closely with Bryan, lauding the Oakleigh Chargers product for his attitude and application.

"The progression we've seen from him as a young ruckman coming through has been really great to see," Roberts said. 

"He's been great in the centre bounces for us, getting first hand (on the footy) and giving our mids first looks.

"With his aerial power and ability to take marks around the ground, we've seen a big improvement in that area from him.

"His attitude towards his development has been first class. He keeps backing up from week to week and has tried hard to build four or five games together of really good footy."

Bryan will become the 1179th player to don the sash, joining fellow AFL debutants Nik Cox (round one), Harrison Jones (one), Archie Perkins (three), Alec Waterman (three) and Zach Reid (five).

NICK BRYAN AT A GLANCE:

Position: Ruck
Recruited from: Oakleigh Chargers/Victoria
Height: 202cm
Weight: 87kg
DOB: October 22, 2001
Key strengths: Athleticism, endurance, skill
Key stat: Shared fifth place in the vertical jump at the 2019 NAB AFL Draft Combine