Western Bulldogs defender Bailey Williams has come a long way since arriving at the Kennel with pick 48 in the 2015 national draft.

The Glenelg product initially flew under the radar of recruiters, but regained their attention with a 56-disposal effort against Woodville West-Torrens in the SANFL.

Williams played school football with Brighton Secondary in Adelaide, and was named the Peter Roberts medallist for best on ground in their 2015 Grand Final.

The now 24-year-old has managed 82 senior games since his debut in round eight of the 2016 season, and has cemented himself in the Bulldogs’ backline over the past two years.

Williams, who was also part of the 2016 Footscray VFL Premiership team, played 23 games this season, including all four finals.

One of the Club’s most consistent contributors, he totalled 144 intercept possessions for the year – and four behind overall leader Alex Keath – to go with 63 spoils and 81 rebound 50s.

Last season was arguably his breakout year however, ranking first at the Club for both rebound 50s and metres gained, while claiming a career-high fifth-place finish in the Charles Sutton Medal.

Williams was also recognised as the 2020 Tony Liberatore Most Improved Player for his rapid rise.

His efforts against three opposition players in the round two win over West Coast highlighted his determination and relentlessness, and looks primed to take his football to another level in 2022.