Exciting small forward Tom Papley could be in line to face Geelong on Friday night after an impressive performance in Saturday’s NEAFL win over NT Thunder.

After a strong start to his AFL career, the 19-year-old was sidelined for a month with shin soreness following the Swans' Round 8 loss to Richmond.

Papley has played the last two games in the NEAFL as he continues on the path back to the senior team.

His ability to crumb the packs and strong goal sense saw him become a regular in the senior team after making his debut off the rookie list in Round 1.

Coach John Longmire said he was eager to get the Rising Star nominee back into the side as soon as possible.

“We know he's good enough to be in the senior company,” Longmire said post-match.

“We have to sit down and work out if he’s done enough minutes-wise.

“We want him back in the team as quickly as we can - it’s just whether he’s right to go.”

Papley received a nomination for the 2016 Rising Star Award following his Round 5 showing against West Coast, when he booted two goals from 20 disposals.