Tylar Young knows patience better than most Richmond and AFL players.

By the time he pulls on the jumper for Richmond's Saturday night clash with Essendon, it will have been more than 420 days since his last appearance at AFL level.

Overcoming his ACL setback, the 26-year-old has already played seven VFL games in 2025, earning the call up to the seniors for Round 18.

"It's a super story. You're always going to look to the first round picks and the spotlight on our new guys, but to see what Youngy has been through, it puts a smile on my face. I can't wait to see him run out," Yze said at his press conference on Friday.

"He's worked on a lot of things in his game. He's so powerful and so fast. He's played seven VFL games so far and his progression has been terrific. That's all we can ask.

"He's deserved his opportunity. We just feel like Youngy is ready to play and we want to look at something different in our back end."

It's been a week of big changes that also includes the addition of Richmond's ninth debutant this season, Taj Hotton, who has also recovered from his ACL setback and earned a senior call-up after a promising VFL stint.

"We've had to hold him back a little bit, to make sure he's prepared. He's a highly talented kid and a great teammate. The boys are super excited to run out there with him," Yze said.

"He is a special talent. His work ethic to get to where he is today, to be ready to play AFL after three VFL games is a credit to him."

On the other end of the spectrum, Richmond defender Nick Vlastuin notches up game 250, in what is an important clash against the Bombers.

"He's so combative and his will to win, it's the reason why this footy Club has won three premierships. It's on the back of guys like Nick Vlastuin and great Richmond men," Yze said.

"Not only that, he's such a smart player and we're starting to see that now and we will get the benefit of that in the next few years. He's buying into the off-field coaching and he's having a terrific season."

Jacob Koschitzke and James Trezise have also been called into the senior side, after knocking down the door in the VFL over the last few weeks, with the coach full of praise for their hunger.

"His (Koschitzke) form has just warranted getting back into the AFL team, which is a credit to him," Yze said.

"The minute they (the players) saw his name put into the squad, they lit up. Trigger (Trezise) is the same, he's been in really good form. They've earned the right.

"We've had a few injuries on the weekend and some unlucky ones, but what it does is give opportunity to someone who has been waiting."

Richmond face off against Essendon at the MCG on Saturday night at 7.35pm. You can purchase tickets here.