Western Bulldogs forward Jarrad Grant is the Round 17 AFL Rising Star nominee.

The 21-year-old was nominated after a standout performance on Sunday against Fremantle at Etihad Stadium where he gathered 20 possessions, four tackles and kicked three goals.

Grant, who made his debut in round five last year, has played 13 matches this season and is averaging 14 possessions per week.

A strong marker and quick, he is dangerous near goal, kicking 17 so far this year.

Western Bulldogs Coach Rodney Eade said Grant's nomination was recognition for his efforts.

"He has fitted into the side really well and has now cemented his spot," Eade said.

"He provides tremendous support for players like Barry Hall and Brad Johnson in our forward line."

After a fine junior career with the Frankston Bombers and Dandenong Stingrays, Grant, an AIS/AFL Academy Graduate and Vic Metro representative was selected by the Western Bulldogs with their first selection (selection five overall) in the 2007 NAB AFL Draft.

He missed the second half of 2008 with osteitis pubis before making his AFL debut in Round Five of 2009 and played just the one game.

He returned to the Bulldogs side in 2010 and has maintained his position, showing promising signs of becoming a long-term forward-line player.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP