Luke Kennedy will become the Bulldogs' sixth debutant for 2026, picked to face the Adelaide Crows on Thursday night.

Drafted at Pick 62 in the 2024 National Draft, the Sandringham Dragons product has put together a number of strong performances at VFL level for Footscray over recent weeks. 

The popular midfielder amassed 17 touches and 15 tackles against Box Hill last weekend.

Kennedy also formed part of the 2025 Footscray Premiership team.

Kennedy said he couldn't believe the news.

"It was a bit surreal at the start - I was pretty speechless and didn't know what to do, but I'm obviously stoked and over the moon for it," he said.

"Just putting on the jumper for the first time, and running out with the guys as well. They're the best."

Kennedy said he was also grateful to develop at VFL level.

"It sort of worked out well having (last) year in the VFL. Matt Kennedy was really good in my development and (helping) how I see things," he added.

"Transitioning into this year with Luke Power and Jack Billings, they've fast-tracked my development and made me feel confident too."