The home-and-away season has concluded for 2025, and with it comes the confirmation of Zero Hanger's top recruit of the year.
A couple of changes took place in Round 24 as the final top eight rankings took shape, with the trio on the podium officially locked in.
Welcome to the weekly rankings of the Recruit of the Year contenders for 2025, as we unveil who made the most impact in their new colours this season.
6Josh Battle (+1)
The recently named All-Australian squad member Josh Battle has undoubtedly earned a place in the Recruit of the Year rankings as he played a major role in Hawthorn's elite defence this season.
Battle was one of the league's best one-on-one defenders, losing just 18.5% of his 2.3 one-on-one defensive contests per game. Among listed key defenders, Battle also averaged the third-highest tackles per game, highlighting his versatility in defence, both aerially and on the ground.
However, where Battle really stood out for the Hawks was his lethal disposal efficiency that regularly turned defensive half possessions into scores. Among key defenders, he ranks third in score involvements per game and generated 3.5 rebound 50s per game, second on the Hawks behind James Sicily.
Battle was the perfect off-season addition for the Hawks and will surely play a factor in their attempt at a deep run in September.
