Jagga Smith has earned the Round 1 Telstra AFL Rising Star nomination.
EMERGING Carlton midfielder Jagga Smith has earned this week’s Telstra AFL Rising Star nomination after a standout performance in the Blues’ Round 1 win against Richmond.
In just his second ever AFL game, Smith accumulated 32 disposals – 15 of those in the first quarter – plus 11 score involvements, five tackles and three clearances.
This followed a fantastic first game for the Navy Blue in Opening Round, where the exciting debutant collected 27 disposals.
Landing at IKON Park at the end of 2024 with pick No.3 in the draft, Smith was highly regarded across the competition for his ball use, speed and composure.
Smith’s 2025 campaign was cut short after suffering an ACL injury in the first practice match of the pre‑season last year. Rather than a roadblock, the 20-year-old’s professionalism and resilience rose to new heights, using the year to ensure that when his moment came, he was ready.
After four nominations across a six-season stretch (2018-2023), the Blues have now had four Telstra AFL Rising Star nominees in their last 16 games, with Smith joining 2025 nominees Cooper Lord (Round 10), Ashton Moir (Round 19) and Matthew Carroll (Round 24).
AFL Senior Coach Michael Voss said today’s announcement is a fitting reward for all of Smith’s hard work after an impressive start to senior football.
“Jagga is an extremely driven footballer. The way he attacked his rehab and preparation over the past 12 months has been outstanding, and we couldn’t be prouder for him with this nomination,” Voss said.
“To perform the way he did in both Opening Round and Round 1 says a lot about his character and what it means to him to represent this football club. He’s composed with ball in hand, makes good decisions and has already shown he can have a real impact through the midfield.
“He possesses a real drive and hunger to be the best footballer and teammate he can be. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for him at the Blues.”