CARLTON'S David Cuningham has earned the round 12 NAB AFL Rising Star nomination for his stirring performance in the Blues' one-point win over Greater Western Sydney. 

The 20-year-old is the Blues' third Rising Star nominee this season, joining defender Caleb Marchbank (round six) and draftee Sam Petrevski-Seton (round seven). 

Cuningham, the No.23 pick in the 2015 NAB AFL Draft, collected 19 possessions and kicked two goals playing through the midfield against the Giants on Sunday.

His maiden 2016 season was interrupted by a hip injury, but he demonstrated his potential with a consistent run at VFL level before debuting in round 21 against the Brisbane Lions.

Cuningham, who possesses elite breakaway pace, has featured in Carlton's last three games after starting the season in the VFL, bringing his tally to six matches.

The 183cm ball-winner spent his junior career with the Canterbury Football Club in the Yarra Junior Football League.

NAB AFL Rising Star hub: news, nominees and past winners

How does the Rising Star Award work and who is eligible?