Bailey Smith’s Dramatic Return: From ACL Recovery to Stirring Up AFL Rivalry

A Fresh Start at Geelong

Bailey Smith’s move to Geelong has been one of the most exciting trade acquisitions in recent memory. The talented midfielder joined the Cats after playing 103 games for the Western Bulldogs over his first five seasons at the top level.

Recovery and Return

Smith’s journey faced a significant setback when he suffered an ACL injury during a training session in December 2023. The injury, confirmed by scans, forced the 23-year-old to leave training midway through the session. However, after missing the 2024 season, Smith has successfully hit the track for his first pre-season with the Cats.

Making Headlines in 2025

Smith has recently stirred controversy after Geelong’s epic victory over Collingwood, where he made comments comparing the atmosphere of the packed MCG to a Bulldogs game in Ballarat that had fewer than 5,000 spectators due to building works.

Despite courting controversy, including being fined for inappropriate gestures against Adelaide and Hawthorn, Smith continues to deliver on the field. His recent performance against Collingwood demonstrated his value with a game-high 34 possessions.

Impact and Future

Smith’s main strength lies in his midfield presence, where he showcases elite strength and endurance with the ability to impact both inside and outside the contest. His versatility is evident in his capability to play across half forward or along the wing.