There was no shortage of drama surrounding the AFL’s stars in 2025, with some of the biggest stories of the season centered around failed trade requests, re-signings, off-field missteps, and one incredible match-winning performance. A champion team created history as one of only four sides this century to win back-to-back premierships, with a massive selection call paying dividends.
In AFL.com.au’s annual six-part series, we count down the biggest football stories of 2025 and the season’s most memorable on-field moments, concluding with stories ranked from 5 to 1.
Smith Shines On-Field, But Faces Scrutiny Off It
Geelong coach Chris Scott was right to call Bailey Smith’s first 12 months at the club an “outrageous success” when it came to the star midfielder’s performances. Returning from an ACL injury and significant mental health challenges, Smith re-emerged as one of the most influential midfielders in the game, sharing the AFL Coaches Association’s Player of the Year award with Noah Anderson and earning All-Australian selection for the first time.
Adding context to his on-field achievements in 2025, Smith used his All-Australian acceptance interview to reveal he had spent time in a mental health facility last year, detailing a “really dark time” in his life in a raw interview. However, his season was marred by a series of off-field decisions that saw the 25-year-old put “on notice” by the AFL. These included inappropriate social media posts at the club’s Mad Monday event, which Geelong apologized for, and an altercation with a female photographer, with Smith himself apologizing for verbally abusing her at a Cats training session.
Smith was also fined twice in 2025 for raising his middle finger during games, with League CEO Andrew Dillon personally counseling the popular star at his surf-coast home mid-season after a social media comment alluding to illicit drug use.
Rankine Banned for Homophobic Slur
Izak Rankine’s suspension for a homophobic slur against a Collingwood player in round 23 was a significant story not only because of his initial actions and the implications for the Crows but also for how it was dealt with in the aftermath. Rankine became the sixth AFL-listed player in 18 months to be banned for an on-field homophobic comment, setting a precedent for at least five-game penalties.
Rankine did not self-report, but the Crows argued for a discounted ban and provided “compelling medical submissions” related to his mental health. The eventual four-game ban was heavily criticized and meant Rankine would be available for the Grand Final if the Crows lost their opening final but still got there the long way. Rankine took time away from the club, training at a facility in Italy during the height of the controversy before returning and addressing his teammates and the club’s AFLW program.
“I want to start by saying how deeply sorry I am for what I said. There was no excuse, it was wrong and I take full responsibility,” Rankine told reporters after arriving home, adding that he was “in no way a victim”.
Nas Takes Over as Saints Rejoice
The most stunning individual performance of the season came in round 20 when St Kilda star Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera orchestrated the biggest three-quarter time comeback in VFL/AFL history. In the midst of his own season-long contract negotiations, Wanganeen-Milera booted two goals in the final minute against Melbourne to seal a remarkable 46-point comeback at Marvel Stadium.
Wanganeen-Milera’s stunning performance further highlighted his vital importance to the Saints in a season that saw him elevate his game amid contract pressure. The 22-year-old became a top-five player in the competition, earning All-Australian selection for the first time, winning the Saints’ club champion award, and showing he can be a game-changing star in the midfield as well as across half-back.
He signed a monstrous two-year deal in August, becoming the League’s first player to earn $2 million a season. Pursued all season by Adelaide and Port Adelaide, his contract call had significant ramifications for the Saints, who needed a commitment from ‘Nas’ before securing their other list priorities.
Merrett “All In” on Hawks, But Trade Denied
The decision by star midfielder Zach Merrett to meet with Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell during the finals set in motion one of the most dramatic trade stories in years. Essendon was unaware that Merrett wanted to explore a trade when he met with Mitchell and was immediately on the front foot, with coach Brad Scott declaring he would not be traded “under any circumstances”.
Teammates also spoke out soon after about their disappointment in the skipper, while Merrett navigated awkward appearances at the Brownlow Medal and again while accepting his sixth club champion award. The 29-year-old remained set on joining the Hawks as new president Andrew Welsh took the reins, but little ground was made as the Hawks waited to make their first and final offer late in the trade period, placing a seven-hour deadline on it.
There were dramatic scenes on the final day of the trade period as Merrett’s manager, Tom Petroro, paced the halls at Marvel Stadium and attempted to broker a deal. None was forthcoming as the Bombers held firm, knocking back an offer that included three first-round picks. The fallout saw Merrett relinquish his captaincy, with Andrew McGrath taking over in a leadership group that no longer contains the Bombers’ best player.
Back-to-Back for Brilliant Lions
The Brisbane Lions etched their name into the history books, becoming one of only four sides this century to win back-to-back premierships. The Lions’ triumph was a testament to their consistency and resilience throughout the season, overcoming injuries and off-field distractions to claim the ultimate prize.
Under the astute leadership of coach Chris Fagan, the Lions made a massive selection call that paid dividends, with young stars stepping up in crucial moments. The team’s depth and unity were on full display, as they navigated a challenging finals series to lift the trophy once again.
This achievement not only cements the Lions’ legacy in AFL history but also sets a benchmark for other teams aspiring to achieve similar success. As the dust settles on the 2025 season, the focus now shifts to how the Lions and other clubs will build on this year’s lessons in their quest for future glory.
