MELBOURNE will feature a host of new faces in its season-opener, with six Demons to make their debut against GWS. 

Matthew Jefferson, Harvey Langford, Xavier Lindsay, Aidan Johnson and Jack Henderson are all set to play their first game at AFL level, while Harry Sharp will run out in the red and blue for the first time. 

Jefferson earns his selection after an impressive pre-season, refining his forward craft and aerial skill.  

The 21-year-old, who was taken with pick No.15 in the 2022 AFL Draft, kicked 29 majors for Casey in 2024, taking home the Troy Broadbridge Memorial Trophy as the club’s best VFL player. 

Melbourne’s 2024 first-round draft crop in Langford and Lindsay will get their first taste at the top level, having put in the work throughout their early months at the club. 

Langford, an all-round talent, joined the Dees from the Dandenong Stingrays via pick No.6, and standing at 191cm, will bring strength and power to the Dees’ mix. 

Lindsay, who was selected with pick No.11, is known for his class and run. The poised 183cm midfielder has been a strong contributor throughout match simulations, with his penetrating kick and neat ball use a standout.  

Johnson and Henderson will have opportunity to add another chapter to their unique stories, having both arrived from Werribee. 

The former, who was selected with pick No.68, joined as a mature age recruit last November and has imposed himself up forward for the Dees ever since.  

The timeline has been much shorter for Henderson, who joined Melbourne via the pre-season supplemental selection period only three weeks ago. 

The 25-year-old is known for his work rate and competitiveness, and hasn’t missed a beat since walking through the doors. 

All six Demon debutants will line-up for Melbourne to face GWS Giants on Sunday afternoon, in the inaugural Jim’s Game at the MCG.  

The Demons’ full team will be announced at 5pm on Friday.