He's only played one game in navy blue, but Sam Kerridge is already giving Carlton supporters plenty to smile about.

The former Crow was a shining light in the Blues' NAB Challenge opener against Hawthorn on Thursday night, showing composure, grunt and hunger from start to finish in midfield.

Wearing the No.11 made famous by club legend Bruce Doull, the blonde-haired 22-year-old amassed a team-high 28 disposals (17 contested), while also adding six clearances and eight tackles to his name.

He was electric in the first quarter, dominating the stoppages alongside partner-in-crime Mark Whiley and setting up Levi Casboult for the game's first goal.

It was no surprise he started with a bang, for since arriving at Carlton in a visibly elite condition in October, Kerridge's determination to prove himself at his second club has seen him stand out on the track.

"It's no secret I came over to Carlton for more opportunity. I really want to push myself to get the best out of myself," Kerridge told The Age.

"I'm pretty anal in the way I go about things. I guess I've just worked out now what works, what I need to do to keep my body fit and healthy and ready to go."

Kerridge, who has a "really good engine" according to coach Brendon Bolton, envisages playing a versatile role in the midfield this season.

"I'm trying to use my engine and really spread all over the ground, as well as doing the inside work with my bigger body," Kerridge told Fox Footy after the game.

The Carlton faithful will be itching to get another glimpse of Kerridge against Essendon at Ikon Park next Sunday, but the possible introduction of more new Blues could further whet that appetite.

After just missing out on selection against Hawthorn, the Blues' top-two draft picks Jacob Weitering and Harry McKay are close to earning a game.

"Maybe next week we'll see more of our draftees," Bolton said.

"I think our members should be excited when we get the opportunity to blood some of our first-year guys like Weitering and McKay."