Richmond SSP signing Tom Burton has earned his AFL debut, set to pull on the yellow and black against Melbourne in Friday night’s Anzac Day Eve clash.

Burton was a train-on player over the pre-season, earning his list spot in early March after impressing coaches and teammates alike with his willingness, fight and speed.

The hard-running midfield/defender has reinvented himself as a small forward since joining the Tigers, providing confidence by foot with the ability to kick goals or set up his teammates. 

He has collected 21, 17 and 15 disposals over three matches, while kicking four goals and laying seven tackles, highlighting his unrelenting forward pressure.

The teenager was most impressive against St Kilda just two weeks ago at RSEA Park, where he booted three of his four VFL majors.

During his three VFL games this season, the 19-year-old has stood tall, impressing coach Jack Madgen over his short time at the Club.

“I have loved watching Burton play. He just keeps working on his craft, and he’s really diligent. If you tell him to do something, he will try his best to do it at the highest standard he can,” Madgen said following Richmond’s practice match against the Australian U18 Academy last weekend.

Burton averaged 29.6 disposals across 12 matches for the Western Jets in the Coates Talent League to be named in the Team of the Year and as the Jets' Best and Fairest in 2025.

He will line up on Friday night alongside fellow 2025 draftee Sam Cumming, who will also debut.

Burton will be the Tigers’ fifth debutant of the 2026 season, following Sam Grlj, Oliver Hayes-Brown, Patrick Retschko and Cumming.