Jagga Smith – Deck of DT 2025

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If you’re looking for the first rookie to pick in your AFL Fantasy team in 2025, Jagga Smith is that guy. Taken at pick 3 in the 2024 AFL Draft, Smith is the most prolific fantasy scorer in this year’s draft pool and has the potential to deliver the kind of first-year impact we’ve seen from the likes of Nick Daicos, Harry Sheezel, and Colby McKercher. His scoring history, skillset, and readiness for AFL make him a must-have selection.

Why Should I Pick Him?

When watching Jagga Smith’s highlights for my draftee analysis guide, I couldn’t help but get Nick Daicos vibes. His movement, composure in traffic, elite ball use, and ability to rack up disposals all scream future fantasy star.

Smith averaged a massive 34 disposals per game in the Coates Talent League, translating to an average of 113.1 AFL Fantasy points across 12 games, which included a 50-disposal performance. These numbers are elite, even by the highest junior standards.

His ability to score extended to the U18 Championships, where he averaged 94.2 AFL Fantasy points per game in shortened matches, and he demonstrated readiness for senior football in the VFL. On debut for Richmond’s reserves, Smith scored 104 AFL Fantasy points and averaged 27 disposals across his three VFL games.

For fantasy coaches, the appeal is obvious: Smith is a high-possession midfielder with a proven scoring pedigree at every level. History tells us that early picks with his fantasy résumé often step straight into a senior role and deliver. If Nick Daicos, Harry Sheezel, and Colby McKercher can become instant fantasy guns, there’s no reason Smith can’t follow suit.

Why Shouldn’t I Pick Him?

There aren’t many reasons to overlook Jagga Smith.

Some might be concerned about Carlton’s midfield depth, but let’s break it down. Behind Patrick Cripps, the Blues’ engine room has question marks. Sam Walsh has struggled with injuries, Adam Cerra hasn’t consistently delivered in a midfield role, Matt Kennedy has left the club, and George Hewett fell out of favour and was used as the sub at times last season. With Jagga’s undeniable talent, he has a strong chance to secure a consistent role from Round 1.

At $334K, he’s priced at the top end of the rookie spectrum, which could be a concern for some coaches. However, given his scoring potential and the likelihood of job security, Smith will generate enough cash to make the investment worthwhile. Any doubts about his place in the team or price tag don’t hold enough weight to ignore him.

Deck of DT Rating:

KING

Jagga Smith has everything you want in a fantasy rookie: elite scoring potential, job security, and he should have a midfield role that suits AFL Fantasy scoring. He’s a ball magnet with an underage history of delivering premium numbers, and he has the skill set to translate that into AFL success immediately. Lock him into both your AFL Fantasy teams and as your pick for the Michael Barlow Medal in 2025.

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