Bailey Smith's inaugural season at Geelong in 2025 dramatically exceeded expectations after he missed the entire 2024 campaign through injury. The dominant midfielder shared the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year award, received his first All-Australian blazer, and finished third in the Brownlow Medal. Smith led the competition with 31.3 average disposals per game and ranked in the AFL's top 10 for centre clearances and inside 50s, forming a powerful midfield partnership alongside Max Holmes. Previously at the Western Bulldogs, Smith was selected in the 22 Under 22 team in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.