AFL 2026: Carlton young gun Jagga Smith extends contract

Carlton rising star Jagga Smith has penned a contract extension just two games into his promising career.

The Blues have re-signed Smith, the No.3 pick from the 2024 draft, until the end of 2030.

Smith, 20, sat out his maiden season with an ACL injury but has been impressive across his first eight quarters at Carlton.

Carlton list manager Nick Austin says “the best is yet to come with Jagga”.

“What we love about Jagga is his willingness to do whatever is asked of him during training or in a game,” Austin said.

“A natural competitor, he is a player who has the ability to consistently win the ball, bring others into the game whilst also showcasing impressive leadership for such a young age

“We had him held in high regard going into the draft and had a targeted approach to make him a Blue. Two years on, we are even more impressed with who he is as a player and a person – we are thrilled he has signed on with the club.

“He is a resilient person with outstanding character and maturity beyond his years, which we saw clearly last year in the way he dedicated himself to his rehab program.

“With only two games under his belt, it’s safe to say the best is yet to come with Jagga and we can’t wait to see what he can produce in the navy Blue.”