After impressing in the JLT Series, the former Golden Square and Bendigo Pioneers midfielder was expected to make his debut for the Greater Wester Sydney Giants in Sunday's season-opener against Essendon.

However, he pulled up with a groin injury after the pre-season clash with Adelaide and is expected to miss at least the first two rounds of the season.

Related: Caldwell's pathway to the AFL

Caldwell made a big impression in his first pre-season with the Giants.

No-one was more impressed with the 18-year-old than Giants' skipper Phil Davis.

"If I was going to put a 10-year contract in front of anyone, I'd put it in front of Jye Caldwell. I just love Jye," Davis told AFL.com.au.

"He's tough and he kicked this goal against Sydney the other day off two steps on the run and I was like 'That's special'. Every now and again you get glimpses.

"Don't get me wrong. If Tim Taranto wants to sign for 10 years and Jacob Hopper wants to sign for 10 years, we'll take them as well.

"I think we've seen enough of Tim to see he's going to be a star, but for those we haven't seen a lot, I think Jye is something really special."

Related: Special offer for footy fans

Caldwell was selected by the Giants with pick 11 in last November's AFL National Draft.

His final year of under-age footy was hampered by injuries, including a hamstring strain which kept him out of the national under-18 championships.

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