Round 3 of the AFL season has continued to prove the importance of the free agency and trade periods, as several off-season recruits have continued to stand out as major game breakers for their respective new teams.
As St Kilda continue to win, their newest midfield hero emerges as the competition's best recruit thus far, while two new names crack into the top eight after stellar performances over the weekend's action.
So, 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 3 giving us plenty to consider.
Selection criteria: Only players who were on an AFL playing list at a different club in the prior season will be considered as recruits in these rankings.
3. Matthew Kennedy (+4)
The Western Bulldogs come from behind victory would have tasted even sweeter for Matthew Kennedy, who dominated his old side with two important goals and 22 disposals.
Kennedy has been a saving grace for a depleted Dogs midfield, stepping up in Bontempelli's absence to work in tandem with Tom Liberatore, attending 81% of centre bounces. He won another nine clearances on Friday night, four of them from the centre of the ground.
With five score involvements to his name in addition to the two snags he kicked, Kennedy is looking more likely to play a key role in the Dogs' hunt for another Finals appearance in 2025.
