CENTRAL to Lachie Whitfield’s decision to become a Blue was the young talent that Carlton has at its disposal.

The 2026 season had many narratives for the Blues, but one of the most heartwarming elements for Carlton fans was the emergence of its young players.

Carlton had four Rising Star nominees in 2026 - the most of any club in the competition - with winner Jagga Smith joined by runner-up Harry Dean, small forward Talor Byrne and running defender Billy Wilson.

After earning a senior nod in 2025, the most recent campaign was clearly a breakthrough for Wilson, who played the last 17 consecutive games - including two finals in front of over 90,000 people.

In his third year on the list, Wilson’s improvement was clear in the defensive half… and his newest teammate liked what he saw.

Speaking to Carlton Media, Whitfield - a two-time All Australian - said he was looking forward to working with Wilson, who came through the Dandenong Stingrays in 2023 - 11 years after Whitfield came through the same pathway as the No.1 pick.

“Billy Wilson is one I’ve got an eye on. I really like the way he goes about it and what he did towards the back end of last season,” Whitfield said.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with him.”

Of course, Wilson isn’t alone, with Whitfield excited to play a leadership role with the Blues’ emerging and exciting youth.

It’s full circle for Whitfield, who entered the Giants after their first season in the competition as one of a number of youngsters tasked with taking the new club forward.

“When I was making my decision, I looked at the young talent and thought that in the years I’ll be here, I can’t see there being a regression with the type of young talent that’s here.

“Jagga is obviously a star as is ‘Deany’. All of these guys have got so m much footy ahead of them, but they’re already playing at a really high level.

“I feel like the next few years at least is going to be quite fun.”