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...
Forwards
Jeremy Cameron's 88 goals were the story of the Cats' 2025 season, naturally suggesting he will be the key figure inside forward 50 in 2026, but don't let that overshadow the incredibly dynamic nature of Geelong's front six that will take the field this year.
The small forwards in Tyson Stengle and Shaun Mannagh contribute effectively as connectors, while Shannon Neale is now a legitimate star, kicking 44 goals from just 2.7 shots per game in 2025.
With the bolstered inside midfielder depth, Patrick Dangerfield will likely resume his multi-positional role. Expect him to primarily make use of his otherworldly strength inside the arc in 2026 as a stay-at-home forward; however, as the all-time great enhances the longevity of his sensational career.
Expect Brad Close to round out the forward line, though the pressure is on number 45 to elevate his play following an underwhelming 2025. Jack Bowes' push further up the ground in his utility role saw him boast a career-high goal tally, while Jack Martin also presents as an option to attack through from half-forward, should he stay healthy, highlighting the fire under Close's seat.
Ollie Henry will begin this season on the outer, with his motor coming under fire in 2025. However, his elite athleticism remains captivating to consider, and he will likely break through into the senior side should Geelong face injury concerns to one of the top six forwards on their list. Henry's career-best form from 2024 is not that distant a memory, and further proof of that level of play could be a difference maker for the Cats this year.
