Looking back on the closest round of football since 1970, it is clear many difference makers in the thrillers were off-season recruits, some players playing pivotal roles in clutch moments.

A Cat has returned to the pinnacle after another staggering display, while a Kangaroos veteran is rising up the ranks as North Melbourne secured a draw with the reigning premiers.

Who's making the most impact in their new colours? Welcome to the weekly ranking of the Recruit of the Year contenders for 2025, with Round 9 giving us plenty to consider.

7. Shai Bolton (NEW)

Shai Bolton's rollercoaster season has continued, following up a dismal Round 8 display with a superstar-like performance that Docker fans will be hoping to see more regularly from their key recruit.

Against the Magpies, Bolton put together his best game of 2025 thus far, tallying a season-high 28 disposals, 14 being contested, in addition to seven inside 50s and a game-high nine clearances. Justin Longmuir threw him into 52% of centre bounces, a key move after Hayden Young's hamstring injury, and Bolton thrived there, winning four clearances in that area.

He contributed another six score involvements on Thursday night too, nothing spectacular by his standards, but he still ranks second behind Andrew Brayshaw in score involvement percentage this season at 31.5%, also the 10th highest rate in the entire league.

While the result ultimately did not go Fremantle's way, Bolton's impact has now been seen in a plethora of roles this season, whether it's in front of goal or within the contest. The Dockers must see that more often if they're to play in September this year, let alone upset GWS at Engie Stadium next weekend.