Tom Mitchell (Hawthorn)
In his debut in the brown and gold, Mitchell will be met with the challenge of coming up against a star-studded Essendon midfield.
But if his recent form is anything to go by, Hawks fans will be pleased with the result.
The former Swan, who averaged 27.5 disposals in his two JLT games, picked up 37 disposals last time he played against the Bombers.
Mitchell will be asked to shoulder the brunt of the contested ball load for the Hawks this year, watch out for him to quickly get his hands dirty in his first game as a Hawk.
Watch: Tom Mitchell's highlights as a Swan
Ben McEvoy (Hawthorn)
"Big Boy" has a massive opportunity to have a defining influence on the outcome of this clash.
With Essendon's depleted ruck stocks combined with the Hawks' selection of only one true ruckman, McEvoy will be setting himself for a strong game.
Watch: Ben McEvoy's 2016 season highlights
Jack Gunston (Hawthorn)
A former Essendon supporter, Jack Gunston has caused headaches for the Bombers' defence in his last three outings against the red and black.
Averaging just short of 19 disposals and kicking 3.33 goals per game, Gunston has had an impressive pre-season, with an adjustment to his role seeing him play even further up the ground.
Watch: Gunston's 2016 season highlights
Jobe Watson (Essendon)
In the last four occasions that Watson has suited up against the Hawks, he has averaged just shy of 30 possessions and over 12 contested touches.
The former skipper averaged 23.3 disposals over his three JLT Series performances and looks likely to return to one of the premier midfielders of the competition this year.
Zach Merrett
Thriving in the absence of numerous senior bodies last year, Merrett averaged just shy of 30 disposals per game in 2016 as a 20-year old.
Winning last year's club best and fairest for his efforts, Merrett is now a pivotal member of the Essendon line-up, as he typifies the way they want to play with his exquisite foot skills and contested ball winning ability.
