The top three remain unchanged in the Recruit of the Year power rankings as a Kangaroo's case for a top-five spot grows.

A Saint star returns to the top four after a glistening performance under the roof, while one Sun has a lot to prove in the coming weeks to stop a slide down the rankings.

Who's making the most impact in their new colours? Welcome to the weekly rankings of the Recruit of the Year contenders for 2025, with Round 15 giving us plenty to consider.

1Bailey Smith (-)

Even in games where Bailey Smith is well held or is unable to influence the contest as much as he usually does, he is still elite. In the Cats' loss to Brisbane at home, Smith won 28 disposals and a season-high seven clearances. Considering the reaction to that game from many fans was that Smith struggled against the Lions' stacked midfield, it's incredible to see what is now expected of him as Geelong marches toward September action.

However, there is some credibility to the criticism. Smith has achieved a disposal efficiency of above 70% just four times this season, and on Friday night, just 16 of his 28 disposals were effective. If there's any way for him to go to the next level, despite already being a Brownlow favourite, it's to hit targets more consistently to truly weaponise his ball-winning talents.

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