He was tagged as a ‘developing prospect’ at the start of the year but perceptions about Josh Williams have quickly changed at Arden Street.

So much so, he’s now on the verge of an AFL debut after being placed on the emergency list for North’s Round 11 clash with Richmond at Etihad Stadium.

Lightly built and raw when he arrived at North with pick 36 in the 2016 Draft, Brad Scott says the 18-year-old has stepped up his development at a rate that matches his lightning speed.

“Over the past five weeks, he’s come on in leaps and bounds,” Scott told NMFC.com.au.

“He’s shown genuine line-breaking ability with his blistering speed in the VFL with Werribee. He’s been able to run and carry, and distribute the footy with great skill and we think he’ll bring a real point of difference to the side in the not too distant future.”

Williams’ development with the Tigers has been impressive. He’s been finding a lot more of the footy playing various roles for John Lamont’s side and has also hit the scoreboard when pushing forward.

“In time, we have no doubt that his attributes will be considered elite,” Scott added.

“He is the quickest player on our list and hopefully this elevation to the emergency list gives him another solid boost and confirms to him that he’s on the right track.

“He has diligently worked on all the areas the development coaches have asked him to and the future is bright for him if he maintains this level of improvement.”