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.

7. Liam Baker (+1)

The Eagles may be 0-3, but they have looked competitive in patches. Sunday was no different as the Eagles got the jump on Fremantle in the first quarter and were in reaching distance of a potential comeback until mid-way through the third. Liam Baker played a significant part in keeping West Coast in the hunt, standing out as one of the side's best yet again.

Baker finished with 23 disposals to his name, 16 of which came in the first half, and he generated three inside 50s - only forward Liam Ryan and ruck Bailey Williams created more.

With a larger role than ever before in his career, Baker is standing up to the plate. He's attending almost half of West Coast's centre bounces this season and he won three clearances from there on Sunday. Those efforts around the footy have been vital, considering the Eagles' stars have struggled in that department, with Harley Reid winning just one clearance again on the weekend.

Baker's efforts on the poor side deserve recognition, hence his return to the power rankings this week.