It’s 2017. The Hawks have plenty of talented young players who will be looking to become regular fixtures in the Hawthorn starting line-up this year.

So, who might we expect to shine?

We’re putting the spotlight on five second-to-sixth year players who are sure to be hoping for a breakout year with the Hawks.

 Five to keep in mind: Tom Mitchell

Name: Tom Mitchell
Age: 23
Guernsey: 3
Games (2016): 26
Games (career): 65
Drafted: Pick no. 21, 2011 NAB AFL Draft (to Sydney).

Tom Mitchell may have already built the foundations for a successful AFL career, however he has not yet had the chance to prove himself in the brown and gold.

Heading into his sixth season on a senior list, Mitchell just meets our criteria.

Following the Swans’ grand final loss in 2016, he requested a trade to the Hawks. The deal was completed early in the trade period, with Hawks offering up their first-round selection, pick 14.

In 2016…

Mitchell averaged 28 disposals for Sydney in 2016.

His grand final performance was noble, managing two goals, 26 disposals and 13 tackles.

Where would he slot in?

Following Sam Mitchell and Jordan Lewis’ departure at the end of the 2016 season, there are at least two starting midfield positions to be filled.

Based on his successful 2015 season, and the Hawks’ willingness to exchange a first-round draft pick to nab the midfielder, Mitchell is likely to be a regular staple in the Hawks’ starting line-up.

According to Elite Performance Manager Andrew Russell, each of Hawthorn’s three trade recruits are on individual training plans preparing to play next year.

“All the recruits have come in with an unbelievably strong attitude to their work. We’re really pleased with the intent they’re training with, and we’re really pleased with the attitude they’ve all brought to Hawthorn.”

While he is yet to prove himself at the Hawks, he has plenty of AFL experience to bring to the table. Mitchell looms as an exciting prospect in the Hawks’ new-look midfield, and is certainly one to keep an eye on.