Geelong 2022 Norm Smith Medallist Isaac Smith has indicated his former side is likely setting itself up for a recruiting raid ahead of the off-season.
The Cats are heavily into Port Adelaide free agent Zak Butters, and are deemed the front runners for his signature, while Toby Greene and Rowan Marshall are also interested in donning the blue and white hoops next year.
Geelong will confirm a top six spot on the table with a victory over the struggling Richmond at GMHBA Stadium this weekend but have been below their consistent best this season, partially due to injuries to Jeremy Cameron and Max Holmes.
"I was surprised to see Jeremy Cameron's contract extended out. Whether they've moved some money around, I have no idea, but looking from afar, it looks like a move where you're looking to get a player in," Smith said on Tuesday's Footy Classified.
"Clubs make those moves when they're looking to bring someone in."
"Clubs all make those moves when they're looking to bring someone in." 👀
The Cats move that makes Isaac Smith wonder if they're preparing for Zak Butters 📝#9FootyClassified | Catch up on 9Now & Youtube 🖥️ pic.twitter.com/E4axUDE6os
— Footy on Nine (@FootyonNine) August 18, 2026
Cameron extended earlier this month until 2028, as did veteran Jack Martin, midfielder Jhye Clark and youngsters Joe Pike, Jesse Mellor.
It leaves Geelong with the equal second-least number of players who remain out of contract at the end of this season, with tall pair Mark Blicavs and Rhys Stanley the high-profile members of the group who a decision will need to be made about.
Having taken care of the contracts of most of the incumbent players, the club now has ample time to make pitches and consider its best off-season moves, with the Cats considered at the front of the pack for Zak Butters, while out-of-contract GWS skipper Toby Greene is another one on their radar.
