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.
2. Jack Macrae (-1)
St Kilda were handed a slight reality check on Sunday afternoon as the Giants defeated them convincingly at Norwood Oval. Jack Macrae didn't have the 30-disposal, 10-clearance effort we've become accustomed to seeing from the superstar recruit this season, but his impact remains undeniable.
While GWS' midfield ultimately got the better of the Saints, slightly overrunning them in clearances (38-35) and contested possessions (125-112) for the match, Jack Macrae was best on in these areas. He played a vital role in keeping St Kilda in the contest, aside from that brutal third quarter, leading the Saints in contested possessions with 12, as well as centre clearances with five - a stat St Kilda ultimately won.
Another tough midfield clash looms with the Bulldogs up next on Easter Sunday, a Bontempelli return reportedly hopeful to occur. Macrae's importance to stealing a win there, and for the St Kilda's finals hopes overall, is rapidly mounting each week.
