Geelong have announced five re-signings for 2022 and beyond, with Brad Close, Rhys Stanley, Zach Guthrie, Gary Rohan and Francis Evans signing new deals.
The quintet of extensions further moulds the Cats' list for next season, which will be looking to bounce back from their horror preliminary final exit.
Close has been a bright spark for Geelong since making his debut last season, cementing his place in Chris Scott's forward line with impressive disposal use and pressure.
The 23-year-old played 22 games in the blue and white hoops this season, booting 17 goals for the year.
RELATED: Cats confirm interest in former Crows and Tigers forward
Forward
Disposals
Marks
Goals
Stanley enjoyed a strong seventh season at Kardinia Park in 2021, playing 19 matches and holding down the first-string ruck duties for the Cats.
The veteran tall will extend his 163-game career following the signing of his new deal.
Rohan joined the Cats ahead of the 2019 season and has played 59 games under Scott in his three seasons at the Cattery.
The flexible forward was part of a lethal attack for Geelong this year, forming a strong three-piece tandem with fellow spearheads Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins.
Guthrie played 13 matches for Geelong this season, bringing his career games tally with the Cats to 33 across five seasons.
The Cats defender had a career-best outing against North Melbourne in 20, recording 28 possessions, 13 marks and five inside 50s.
Evans joined the Cats via the 2019 National Draft from VAFA side Brunswick NOBS and was able to break into the AFL side this season in Round 2.
The crafty forward played the two matches in 2021, booting two goals for his efforts.
“We have worked to secure these contracts and are pleased that Rhys, Gary, Brad, Zach and Francis have committed to the club,” Geelong’s general manager of football Simon Lloyd said in the club's announcement.
“Frank is an up and coming player and we believe he can play well at AFL level. Zach played his best footy this season, while Rhys, Gary and Brad were mainstays of our team this year. All have a strong desire to continue develop their football and make strong contributions to the Club.”
The five new deals leave midfielder Charlie Constable and father-son selection Oscar Brownless as the pair without deals for 2022.
The Cats have already confirmed Lachie Henderson and Josh Jenkins have announced their retirement, while Ben Jarvis and Cam Taheny have been delisted and Stefan Okunbor has returned home to Ireland.
