A natural leader and a tenacious inside midfielder: that's how Brad Walsh was described when he was recruited to Carlton with a second round selection (number 24 overall) in the 2014 Rookie Draft.

The 18-year-old from Western Australia brought to the Blues the experience of having captained WA at both Under-16 and Under-18 level, and playing seven senior matches in the WAFL with Peel Thunder.

Walsh has been named to make his debut for Carlton in Saturday's Round 16 clash with Fremantle, after being upgraded from the rookie list in place of Bryce Gibbs, who has been added to the long-term injury list.

Carlton's Head of Football Andrew McKay says Walsh earned his call up.

"Brad has worked really hard since coming to the club and over the past month he has consistently been among the best for the Northern Blues," McKay said.

"He's a player who has quality skills and a terrific running game – it will be fantastic to see him take the next step to AFL level."

Walsh will become Carlton's 1166th player and will wear guernsey number 34, previously worn by the likes of Ian Robertson, Alex Marcou and Ron De Iulio.

His inclusion is one of three changes, with Sam Rowe and Sam Docherty also coming into the side in place of the injured Bryce Gibbs and Dennis Armfield, while Cameron Wood has been rested.

The match kicks off on Saturday at Domain Stadium at 5.40pm AWST.