The varied mix of performances from recruits in Round 4 shaped a number of results across an intense weekend of footy.
Two Suns have emerged as players to watch while the top two remains unchanged after strong efforts in the midfield by each player respectively.
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 4 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.
2. Bailey Smith (-)
Geelong's Bailey Smith holds his spot in second after another outstanding game in the midfield against Melbourne's superstars of Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver. The new Cat continues to amaze fans with his hard-nosed efforts around the football, proving he belongs the guts.
Smith went to town on the Demons on Friday night, finishing with 28 disposals and five clearances. His gusto when applying pressure must be lauded too, Smith laying eight tackles including three inside 50. Smith's endeavours are often rewarded on the scoreboard too, being involved in 28.8% of all Geelong scores this season, the highest percentage on the team, so it's apparent just how much influence he is already making for the club.
The Cats desperately needed to rebound after falling excruciatingly short the past two weeks, and Smith's continued high-intensity play was significant in ensuring they got back in the winner's column.
