Jai Newcombe rated 8.5/10 in Hawthorn's loss to Fremantle: 26 disposals, 14 contested possessions, 8 clearances, 4 score involvements. Described as carrying an enormous workload and the only midfielder consistently winning first possession under pressure. Author notes he looked not fully fit but still elite.

Jai Newcombe rated 9.1/10 in detailed HAW vs PIE review: 28 disposals, 9 clearances (6 from centre bounce), 11 score involvements, 5 tackles. Reviewer says it is time he gets recognised as a top midfielder in the comp.

Jai Newcombe was outstanding in the Hawks R7 win over Gold Coast, rated 9.5/10 with 30 disposals, 20 contested, 12 clearances and 6 tackles. Post author and commenters call him underrated nationally and an All-Australian contender. Community unanimously rates him as Hawks best.

Jai Newcombe had an outstanding game vs Gold Coast Suns, described as "star of the game" and continuing to outplay the best mids in the league weekly without recognition. He is becoming a genuine star with a Norm Smith potential trajectory suggested by some.

Jai Newcombe rated 9.4/10 vs Bulldogs with 28 disposals and 14 clearances (career high). Community praises him as the midfield leader; considered the most improved area of the Hawks' game and now harder to shut down than in previous seasons.