Richmond draftee Sam Grlj has been crowned the Round 7 AFL Rising Star, after a standout performance against Melbourne in the Anzac Day Eve clash.

Grlj, who made his debut in Round 1 against Carlton at the MCG, has played every game of the season so far, standing tall through his role in defence and flashes in the midfield.

Selected by the Tigers with pick eight in the 2025 AFL Draft, the 18-year-old had 21 disposals, nine kicks, 12 handballs, two marks and a tackle in Friday night’s loss.

He is averaging 17.1 disposals this season, an above-average 2.7 tackles and 286.5 metres gained.

The speedster has also already received praise from his teammates, including leader Jayden Short.

“He’s amazing Grlj. I love the kid. What he’s brought to the Club; his energy, his willingness to learn. That’s all you can ask from a young kid," Short said.

“He’s come in with a positive attitude and wants to better himself. He wants to get his team to be better. I really appreciate having Grlj on my team.”

Grlj, who has already impressed with his unforgiving speed and burst from the backline and middle this year, averaged 20.3 disposals, five tackles and 3.9 clearances at Coates Talent League level last year.

He becomes Richmond's first Rising Star nominee for the 2026 season, with Sam Lalor (Round 1, 2025) and Luke Trainor (Round 18, 2025) nominated last year.