Several recruits starred over the long Easter weekend as footy fans were treated to several thrilling contests.
A Fremantle forward has jumped up into the top four as his scoreboard impact continues to mount, while the Bulldogs' dominant win over St Kilda sees their star recruit leapfrog a Saints midfield acquisition.
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 6 giving us plenty to consider.
1. Bailey Smith (-)
The Cats' star recruit continues to shine with yet another ball-dominant display in an Easter Monday classic. Smith racked up 28 disposals, flaunting his skill and riling up the Hawks faithful in a heated match where winning possession - and using the ball well - was critical in a match where poor kicking was arguably most costly for the losers.
Smith was rampant in the contest, third in the match for ground ball gets with eight and second in metres gained with 630. His efforts in the fourth quarter played a significant role in Geelong absorbing Hawthorn's surges and holding off an impressive fight-back from the Hawks.
Despite a couple of scuffles and a controversial whack at Jarman Impey, Smith's presence amongst the contest on Easter Monday could not be denied as his impact in Geelong's midfield continues to elevate them into the premiership conversation.
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