After trading away their top two picks during the trade period, Geelong is weighing their options in an attempt to possibly reclaim a spot in the first two rounds of this year’s AFL Draft.
The Cats traded Picks 17 and 38 for Bailey Smith last week, while also acquiring Pick 45 in a four-club deal. Currently, Geelong‘s picks are 45, 57, and 75, leaving them with the second-latest first pick, ahead of only Collingwood, who will start at Pick 52.
With a deep talent pool available, many clubs are evaluating how to improve their draft positions, including Geelong, who has access to their entire set of 2025 picks.
Football boss Andrew Mackie mentioned the possibility of using future first- or second-round selections to move back into the top 40 of this year’s draft. He emphasized the extensive work of the recruiting team and their efforts to assess player prospects.
Mackie noted, “We’re exploring various options for trades, including possibly bringing future picks into this year’s draft. Our decisions will depend on how Stephen Wells and his team view the draft board.”
Clubs can negotiate pick swap deals before the National Draft, which will take place on November 20, with final confirmations occurring that night.
Geelong also needs to fill several roster spots, including one for former Carlton forward Jack Martin when delisted free agency begins on November 1. Additionally, the club has shown interest in Irish talent Cillian Burke, who could be signed as a Category B rookie.
This week, the Cats released basketball talent Joe Furphy, bringing their total departures to 10 since the end of the 2024 season.