Ascending to the Pinnacle: Bailey Smith Set for Major Contract Boost Following Standout Season

Bailey Smith is poised to secure a lucrative deal with the Geelong Cats, as reported by Cal Twomey on Footy Classified.

Twomey indicates that Smith’s initial contract with the Cats was approximately $700,000 per season, which falls significantly short of what some elite players are earning in the league.

Smith was still recovering from a torn ACL when he joined Geelong and subsequently enjoyed a breakout season in 2025, finishing third in the Brownlow Medal and winning the AFL Coaches Association Player of the Year award.

While Smith’s contract is secure until the conclusion of 2030, its financial terms are set to change.

“Bailey Smith is nearing an enhanced contract. The agreement he signed when he transitioned from the Western Bulldogs lasts until 2030, but they are close to finalising a new deal that will elevate him among the highest-paid midfielders in the game,” Twomey explained on Nine’s Footy Classified.

“He originally signed for about $700,000, but now he’s set to be elevated to the elite level. While the duration remains unchanged (with his contract still valid until 2030), it’s certainly excellent business to reward him following his impressive performance last year.”

While the term ‘elite midfielders’ is somewhat ambiguous, it’s clear that it will place the Geelong star’s earnings above $1 million per season.

Smith showcased a career-best performance, averaging 31 disposals per match, along with recording personal highs in clearances, inside 50s, tackles, and marks.

Former Geelong star Isaac Smith supports the Cats’ decision to grant the 25-year-old a considerable salary increase.

“Absolutely the right call. I believe that often, the star players in the game are undervalued financially,” Smith remarked.

“While Nick Daicos or Marcus Bontempelli might be seen as the top midfielders, $700,000 is a relatively average salary in the AFL, so he definitely deserves a substantial raise.”

On the field, Smith’s performance reached new heights, yet off the field, he faced several controversies.

He was fined for making an inappropriate gesture towards a fan during Gather Round, verbally lashed out at a photographer during training, and his behaviour during the club’s Mad Monday festivities resulted in the end of a long-standing tradition of costume dressing.

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon personally met with Smith during the season to address concerns regarding his conduct.

His captain, Patrick Dangerfield, spoke to the complexity of the situation in the off-season, admitting that while Smith has made great strides on the field, he still has work to do off it.

“He’s had a fantastic pre-season. His off-field issues have been a challenge… but that’s part of the journey, and we’ll get there in time,” Dangerfield told 3AW in February.

“Hopefully soon, but not just yet.”

Smith showcased his prowess in round three, accumulating 40 disposals and making 10 tackles in Geelong’s victory over Adelaide.