St Kilda coach Scott Watters has singled out midfielders Sebastian Ross and Jack Newnes as the teenage recruits most likely to press for senior selection in their debut season.
A cousin of Essendon skipper Jobe Watson, Ross was the first of the Saints' six selections at last month's AFL national draft at No.25 overall while fellow 18-year-old Newnes, from the Northern Knights, went at 37.
Watters said the pair have their noses in front of former Calder Cannons forward Daniel Markworth, ruck prospect Jay Lever from the Geelong Falcons and ex-Glenorchy half-back, Jimmy Webster.
"The one thing I don't want to do is put a ceiling on what a player can or can't do, so the opportunity is there for every one of those players," Watters said.
"But it wouldn't surprise me if Seb Ross or Jack Newnes, given the way that they train and their dedication, jump up and press."
"The rest ... as soon as their bodies are right, they have every right to challenge and they'll be considered."
Watters said he was particularly impressed with Newnes who had enjoyed an 'outstanding' first week at the club.
"He was likened to have Lenny Hayes-type leadership qualities prior to the draft and he's done nothing to disappoint in that area," said Watters.
"He's a quiet kid but really studious in the way he's attacking our game plan, a beautiful kick of the footy and will become a quality midfielder given time."
Watters said he has high hopes for the club's sixth and final draftee, 25-year-old former West Coast defender Beau Wilkes who managed to reinvent himself as a key forward with Claremont in the WAFL last season.
The coach said the club's senior players have responded well to a new voice and a fresh approach after five years under Ross Lyon.
Watters singled out Hayes, Stephen Milne, Justin Koschitzke and Brett Peake for setting a good example on the track.
He said he's looking for improvement from each and every senior player in 2012 including skipper Nick Riewoldt who will rejoin pre-season training in the New Year following a short break.
"There's huge capacity within this group," Watters said.
"There aren't many (senior players) who I would say have absolutely maxed-out with what they can deliver."
"I think there's huge scope there and part of it not bowing to the perceptions that come from outside."
"They'll decide where their capacity is and, if they challenge and really chase that, there are no limits."
Watters said Brendan Fevola is 'not in our plans' for the rookie draft.