Luke Edwards was thrust into the senior side this season and handled it with aplomb, cementing himself as a capable inside and outside midfielder, often in the absence of engine room quartet of Luke Shuey, Jack Redden, Elliot Yeo and Tim Kelly.
He put together a strong first performance against Carlton in round 12 – with 15 disposals, three marks and two tackles – and the 19-year old was retained for the Eagles’ next match against Richmond where he followed up with 27 disposals and a second win in the blue and gold.
The son of Adelaide legend Tyson Edwards continued his consistent form – sans being named as an unused medical sub in round 17 – and had another standout performance against his father’s former club in round 18, with 19 disposals, 13 contested, and six marks.
But, in a disappointing end to the season, Edwards pulled up sore after the Crows clash, missing round 19 and 20 due to a hamstring injury. He was able to return for just two matches, before succumbing to the same niggle in the final game of the home-and-away season against Brisbane.
However, the season as a whole saw Edwards earmarked as a promising member of the squad.
Standout performance: Running riot against reigning premiers
Edwards proved himself more than capable against the reigning premiers in round 13, raking in 27 disposals, five marks and six intercepts in a memorable Eagles win.
But it was the final quarter which saw the 19-year-old kick into another gear, collecting 11 of his 27 disposals, with four contested, as well as roping in four score assists.
This second-game performance saw him solidify a position in the senior side for the remainder of the season when available.
Season averages:
Disposals - 12.5
Disposal Efficiency - 74
Kick Efficiency - 66.7
Marks - 3.3
Contested Possessions - 3.5