James Cousins Biography

Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson highlights James Cousins' tagging job on Zach Merrett as an example of what is possible when faith is shown in youth.

Cousins, a 20-year-old in his sixth match, was the first of two late additions to the Hawks' squad and impressively kept Essendon's All Australian midfielder to only 17 disposals and one clearance.

"Young Cousins got a role today on Merrett, which was only decided on about an hour before the game," Clarkson said.

"He, on very little preparation, has come in and done a role for us on a very important player for the Essendon side."

Hawthorn has shored up its playing stocks for the next few seasons, with Conor Glass, James Cousins and Oliver Hanrahan signing new contracts.

"We're thrilled that each of these guys have extended their contracts," Hawks list manager Graham Wright said.

"Being on the rookie list, these boys are obviously still developing as footy players, but we're really pleased with the steps they have taken since joining the club."

James Cousins will likely miss the rest of the season after hurting his shoulder in Box Hill's loss to Williamstown.

Cousins suffered the injury early stages of the match, but bravely played on to collect 24 touches and kick a goal.

He will require surgery on the shoulder and is unlikely to play again this year.

"Cuz managed to play out the rest of the game, which is a testament to his toughness and determination to help the team," Hawthorn general manager of football operations Jason Burt said.

"Unfortunately, he’s going to have surgery on that shoulder, and he will miss a chunk of the season.

"He’s a great kid and a promising footballer, so we want to make sure his body is 100 per cent right going forward."

James Cousins makes his AFL debut for Hawthorn at the SCG with 14 disposals (7 kicks and 7 handballs), a mark, 6 tackles and a goal in a 6-point win over Sydney.

James Cousins will make his debut for the Hawks against Sydney this week after being elevated to the Hawks' senior list.

"James is a young kid who came to the club via last year's rookie draft, and really hasn't put a foot wrong since," Hawthorn football manager Jason Burt said.

"He has a great work ethic both on the field and at training, and his contested ball numbers in the VFL this year are a testament to that."

Hawthorn select James Cousins with pick No.46 in the 2016 Rookie Draft.

"James is a tough inside midfielder who had an excellent year with Murray Bushrangers," Hawks recruiting manager Graham Wright said.

"He's a high possession winner, good stoppage player, with excellent endurance.

"He is a good sized midfielder at 185cm and 80kg."