Carlton forward Eddie Betts realises he might have blown his AFL career with an alcohol-fuelled mishap at Christmas.

Betts admits his sanction by the club had proven to be a major "wake-up" - and coach Brett Ratten says he has responded magnificently.

The 23-year-old, who will play his 100th game against Essendon at the MCG on Saturday, was punished along with Andrew Walker and Ryan Houlihan for their drunken antics on an end-of-season "booze cruise".

However, Betts said he had worked hard to make amends for the mistake, after the trio were banished from senior training and suspended for the NAB Cup.

"It was a big wake-up call for me in particular because I'd been in trouble before," Betts said.

"It makes me look at myself and say, you only get one chance at AFL footy and if you muck up you know you couldn't be here next year."

"So it makes you have a good look at yourself."

Ratten said Betts had now become one of the fittest players at the club.

"Out of things that (were) a mishap or a bad choice, he's made some really positive steps from that point," Ratten said.

Betts said he was looking forward to the game against Essendon.

"It's been a long journey but it's good to play 100 games," he said.

"You always dreamed of playing AFL footy. To play that one game is a great experience but to play 100 is just unbelievable.

"I'm looking forward to it and I can't wait to get out there."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP