Mitch Robinson, Aaron Joseph, Jeff Garlett and Sam Jacobs will all make their AFL debuts in the highly-anticipated match, the club revealed ahead of Wednesday afternoon's official team selection.
Garlett was promoted to Carlton’s senior list for injured ruckman Robbie Warnock.
Warnock, who arrived at Visy Park from Fremantle at the end of the 2008 season, has been placed on the Blues' long-term injury list as he recovers from a stress fracture in his foot.
Assistant coach Mark Riley said on Wednesday that Carlton coaching staff have been impressed with the 19-year-old's forward pressure and skills.
"I wouldn't like to be a half-back flanker with the ball in my hands in today's game with Jefferey Garltett in the vicinity because he'll run you down," Riley said.
"His form with the ball in the oppositions' hands has been fantastic but he's also been able to provide some of that Indigenous magic with the ball in his hands."
Riley said it will be great for all four debutants to gain some experience on the big stage in front of a massive crowd.
"We've still got a very young list and it'll be great to give these boys exposure at an early age in front of big crowds in big games," Riley said.
"Even though it's a big game versus Essendon and versus Collingwood we haven't really been in many big games in recent years. There's an expectation on both clubs that we will improve and both clubs will be aiming to make the finals in 2009.
"All [those lads] have been impressive in their own way over our pre-season."
Ex-Demon Chris Johnson will also run out in the navy blue for the first time.
Star forward Brendan Fevola did not train with the main group on Wednesday after being troubled by a bruised heel in the lead-up but Riley said there was no doubt about his availability.
"He'll be fine. He trained really well when we trained two days ago and there were no worries or no follow up the next day so he's as sweet as a nut," he said.
Riley admitted he hadn't seen a build up to a match as fervent as this one, but said it made little difference to the side's preparation.
"I haven't [seen it like this before], but internally our build up is just to get our processes and structures right. We haven't really focused much on the attendance," he said.
"There are some big stories inside the game itself and everyone can't wait for football to come around, but as far as the guys are concerned they're just keen to get out and play.
"We just want to see if we've made the necessary improvements and the only time you really get legitimate feedback is in the home-and-away rounds."
