Hawthorn’s biggest off-season acquisition Jon Patton is showing early signs he could have a significant impact this season, with star teammate Tom Mitchell admitting he’s been “surprised” by the forward’s progress over the summer.

Patton, Pick 1 in the 2011 national draft, last year was traded during the AFL exchange period, with Hawthorn sending a future fourth-round selection (tied to Melbourne) back to the Giants.

The 26-year-old hasn’t played a game at any level since rupturing his ACL for the third time in 2018, but cut a lean figure since arriving at the Hawks.

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Round 18

Speaking on SEN Breakfast on Wednesday, Mitchell said Patton had shown ample promise on the track over recent months.

“He’s going really well. He’s surprised me with how well he’s moving at training, to be honest,” Mitchell said on SEN.

Jon Patton was traded from the Giants to Hawthorn. Picture: Andrew Henshaw Source: News Corp Australia

“He took some really strong contested marks in our training camp on the Sunshine Coast and hopefully that’s a good sign of things to come.

“He’s slotted in well with all the boys really well and fitted in nicely, so I think he’ll be a good player for us.”

Mitchell added: “Hopefully with Chad Wingard getting a full pre-season under his belt and the addition of Jonny Patton, hopefully we can all jell together and take that next step as a team.”

The Hawks experienced ample success with Jarryd Roughead and a hybrid forward line last decade before 21-year-old key goalkicker Mitch Lewis emerged in 2019 with 20 goals from 12 games.

Jon Patton hasn’t played footy since midway through 2018. Picture: Dylan Burns Source: Supplied

But Mitchell said Patton’s presence would only help the Hawks’ bid to improve this season.

“I think it can only help having an anchor up forward … if the midfielders are under pressure and just need to let the ball go, you’ve got someone up there who’s going to compete and bring the ball to ground for our smaller forwards,” he said.

“He’s been working alongside Mitch Lewis. We’ve got Tim O’Brien and Jack Gunston who are other guys who can play tall up there line as well.

“Hopefully that synergy clicks pretty quickly and we can see what they can do.”