Gather Round provided footy fans with several classics, the impact of star off-season additions as apparent as ever.
A key Geelong midfielder has re-established himself as the top-ranked recruit, while the Gold Coast and Bulldogs see their star pickups continue to rise.
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 Gather Round giving us plenty to consider.
4. John Noble (+3)
The biggest ascender of Round 5 is Gold Coast's half-back phenom John Noble, whose impact was vital in delivering a crushing blow to the opposing Kangaroos, the Suns running rampant over North Melbourne in a sublime fourth quarter.
67 of Gold Coast's 141 points came from the defensive half, Noble leading the charge with a game-high 712 metres gained, five rebound 50s and three score launches. The magnitude of his 28-dispoal afternoon was compounded by his pressure, rewarded with a crafty final quarter goal that began with his own smother, exemplifying his efforts in the pink guernsey. Add into the mix six marks, two being intercepts, Noble was in with a shout for being best-on-ground at Barossa Valley.
Noble's impact at Gold Coast so far has been comparable to his 2023 season at Collingwood, a year in which he arguably should have been a premiership player. He's averaging 4.3 rebound 50s per game and 2.5 inside 50s from a career-high average of 24 disposals per game, proof that he's been excelling in Damien Hardwick's attacking system. Furthermore, he's posting career-best score involvements and score launches from his defensive position, highlighting Gold Coast's ability to maximise his influence.
Those are promising figures for the Suns, who now remain as just one of two teams yet to lose this season.
