The Western Bulldogs are one of four teams with the bye this weekend while the rest of the competition rolls on.

westernbulldogs.com.au takes a look at how this year’s AFL debutants have fared.

Ed Richards

Earning a Rising Star nomination in just his ninth match of senior football, Ed Richards has played 10 games for the Dogs since making his debut in round two.  

Selected with pick #16 in the 2017 National Draft, Richards was rewarded with a Rising Star nomination in Round 10 against Collingwood. He finished with 23 disposals (10 contested), eight intercept possessions and five inside 50s.

He’s good, the kid: Bont on Ed

The 18-year-old signed a three year contract extension in April, keeping the defender at VU Whitten Oval until at least 2021.

Richards is averaging 15 disposals, three tackles, three marks and two rebound-50s.

Aaron Naughton

A strong pre-season at VU Whitten Oval saw draftee Aaron Naughton rewarded with a round one debut against Greater Western Sydney.

Taken with pick No.9 in last year's NAB AFL Draft, the key defender has impressed with his ability to match it with more seasoned opponents.

Defender nominated for mark of the year

Interrupted by injury in round 8, Naughton has averaged 11.4 disposals, four marks, six intercept possessions and two rebound 50s per match.

Billy Gowers

Leading the Bulldogs’ goal kicking tally (14), Billy Gowers was plucked from the ‘Scray as one of last year’s draft steals.

Taken at pick #9 in the 2017 AFL NAB Rookie Draft, Gowers spent two years on Carlton’s rookie list before being delisted and signing with Footscray.

Gowers has kicked a goal in all but one of his 11 matches for the Dogs – averaging 11 disposals, four marks and two tackles.