19 players made the 44-man All-Australian team for the first time in 2024, suggesting they took their game to the next level.
So, who could be primed to do the same in 2025?
In no particular order, here are 10 players who have the opportunity to take the next big step over the coming 12 months.
5. Bailey SmithÂ
Arguably the biggest move of the 2024 trade period, Smith going to Geelong opens up so many options for him to blow past what his production was at the Bulldogs.
It is no secret that Smith was not happy with the amount of midfield time he was receiving under Luke Beveridge and it seems quite clear that those issues will be resolved at the Cats.
Playing a majority of midfield minutes in a team where he will now likely be the best ball-winner should do wonders for his game. Depending on how he comes back from his ACL injury, if Smith can do some of the things he did for the Bulldogs on a more regular basis at the Cats, there is no telling how much he will be able to improve in this environment.
