The Geelong Cats returned to the final day of September for a third time in six seasons last year but will rue the Grand Final as a missed opportunity, considering how convincingly the Cats defeated Brisbane in the Qualifying Final just three weeks prior.
They were led by Coleman medallist Jeremy Cameron, whose 88 goals were the most in a single season since 2008, as well as superstar recruit Bailey Smith, who claimed co-AFLCA Champion Player of the Year honours.
Those two are only the tip of the iceberg, however, as the Cats' extraordinary depth looks to pay dividends for another successful season in 2026 for one of the modern era's most dominant clubs.
The Cats' list will remain largely the same in the new year, with James Worpel's recruitment down the highway the only notable addition from the 2025 trade and free agency period. However, several young talents are looking to push through into the senior side, which could see a shake-up from the 23 that took to the hallowed turf in the 2025 decider.
With all of that in mind, let's take a look at what Geelong's best 23 might look like...
Midfielders
Geelong's engine room is an exciting mix of stars, speed and on-ball tenacity, which hopes to stake the claim as one of the better clearance-winning sides in the league in 2026.
The polarising Bailey Smith and lethal Max Holmes headline the core, but the depth of this unit is what helps the duo excel.
Tom Atkins' ferocious tenacity in the midfield is now a must-have for Geelong on the field, breaking the home and away tackle record in 2025.
Ollie Dempsey's pace along the wings allows Geelong to surge forward and create consistent inside 50s, while Gryan Miers' growing experience in the middle in 2025 bodes well for his efforts in that area in 2026, given his sharp ball use by foot and improving strength in tackles.
While the previous five mentioned are essentially locks to play weekly for the Cats, many midfielders are pushing to start inside the centre square when the first siren rings out.
Recruit James Worpel, the returning Tanner Bruhn and youngster Jhye Clark, who impressed on the ultimate stage, will all be vying for an increased role in the hoops in 2026.
Tagging weapon Oisin Mullin will likely sit on the outer despite a phenomenal finals campaign, as will youngster Mitch Knevitt, who flashed promise in 2025 but couldn't establish himself as a regular member of the best 23.
As for rucking options, Geelong's failed pursuit of Saints star Rowan Marshall will mean Rhys Stanley will unbelievably play a 17th season in the AFL and likely remain as Geelong's number one option at stoppages.
However, Mark Blicavs has proven his capability to play in tandem with Stanley, or as a solo ruck option, suggesting greater reliance may come from him in 2026. Toby Conway will also look to emerge as a legitimate ruck option in 2026 after several seasons plagued by injury will hopefully be put behind the 22-year-old.
