The pre-season is always a telling time for new draftees.

It can become a pressurised environment having to settle into life as a professional footballer, sometimes in a completely different city, miles from the comforts of home all the while juggling the huge workloads which consist of daily training, rehab and team meetings.

With less than a month before the start of the 2016 NAB Challenge, AFL reporter Adam Curley checks in to see how our first-years are tracking eight weeks after beginning their AFL careers.

SENIOR LISTED

Callum Mills: Another Swans' academy gem that looks ready-made for senior footy after performing well in time trials and blitzing the skill work.

Tyrone Leonardis: Was drafted for his kicking ability and has shown that it's a hallmark of his game in contested work and skill drills under pressure.

Jordan Dawson: Looks a likely prospect with strong hands in marking contests and a booming left-foot kick. Still developing but has worked hard in his first few weeks.

ROOKIES

Tom Papley: The nuggety small forward is working hard on his tank and has looked more comfortable when the balls have come out.

Kyle Galloway: The raw ruckman has plenty of time to develop and has already shown some positive signs working alongside Kurt Tippett, Callum Sinclair and the rest of the Swans' big men.

Sam Murray: The mature-ager has attacked his first pre-season hard and while senior footy might be some time away, he doesn't look daunted by his surroundings.

Colin O'Riordan: The Irishman has picked up the game well, works extremely hard and has solid skills for an international rookie.