FORMER No.1 NAB AFLW Draft pick Gabby Newton has undergone a dual shoulder reconstruction and will not feature for the Western Bulldogs in the upcoming AFLW season.

In a massive blow for the Bulldogs, the 20-year-old has been moved onto the inactive list to protect her long-term future.

However, former Richmond ruck Alice Edmonds has received an AFLW lifeline as a replacement player for Newton, having been a train-on player this pre-season.

After being taken with the first pick in the 2019 draft, Newton has played all 15 games since debuting in round one of the 2020 season.

Bulldog Gabby Newton in action against GWS in round five, 2021. Picture: AFL Photos

"The best thing to help manage and minimise further shoulder injuries was to operate," Newton said.

"While it's not ideal, it's important I take the time to rehab now and get my body back to 100 per cent for seasons 2023 and beyond.

"I'll still stay involved with the team off-field and help out in any way I can – I'll be cheering loud from the sidelines all year."

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Bulldogs women's football manager Debbie Lee said Newton would provide support to midfield coach Natalie Wood.

"We have no doubts she will provide great support and encouragement for our players and continue to have an impact both on and off-field," Lee said.

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Newton stands up in the tackle

Dogs' top selection Gabby Newton was crunched but got a handball away in this Special K Strong Play

Edmonds played all six games in the Tigers' inaugural season, but was unable to break into the side in 2021, with the club opting for Gabby Seymour.

The Dogs desperately needed some ruck support for Celine Moody following Kim Rennie's move to North Melbourne.

"Alice is someone we’ve had our eye on for a couple of years through her time in the AFLW at Richmond," Bulldogs list manager Mick Sandry said.

"She’s a tall and athletic footballer with huge potential that we feel will really benefit our program.

"In her short time as a train-on player with our group she has fitted in seamlessly and we can’t wait to have her now fully integrated into the team.

"Alice definitely has what it takes to impact in the AFLW and has a big future ahead of her."

The AFLW season is due to get underway on January 6.