So, you want to understand how Geelong will approach the 2025 AFL Draft? Whether you're a die-hard Cats supporter or just getting into the draft scene, you've come to the right place. By the time you finish this guide, you'll know exactly what Geelong needs, which prospects fit the bill, and how to spot a potential future star before the national draft even begins.

Let's be honest—watching the draft is half the fun, but knowing why the Cats pick certain players makes it ten times better. I'm going to walk you through a practical checklist so you can analyze Geelong's draft strategy like a pro. No jargon, no fluff—just the good stuff.

What You'll Need Before We Start

Before we dive into the step-by-step, let's make sure you've got the basics covered. You don't need to be a draft expert, but a little prep goes a long way.

A basic understanding of the AFL Draft system: You know it's where clubs pick young talent, and you know Geelong usually has picks in the first few rounds. That's enough.
Access to draft profiles: Websites like the AFL's official draft hub or fan sites with prospect rankings are gold. Bookmark a few.
Knowledge of Geelong's current list: You don't need to memorize every player, but knowing who's retiring soon (hello, Tom Hawkins and Joel Selwood are already gone, but you get the idea) helps.
A willingness to think like a recruiter: Forget your favorite player for a second. We're looking at needs, not just names.

Got that? Perfect. Let's get into the nitty-gritty.

Step 1: Understand Geelong's Core Needs for 2025

Every draft analysis starts with one question: What does the team actually need? For the Cats, 2025 is a fascinating year. Geelong is still a contender—they made the AFL Finals Series in 2024 and showed they can match it with the best. But Father Time is undefeated.

Here's the reality check: Patrick Dangerfield isn't getting any younger. Tom Hawkins is retired. Joel Selwood is already in the rearview mirror. The Cats have done a brilliant job reloading through the draft and trades, but there are gaps.

Key needs for the 2025 draft:

Key position players: With Hawkins gone, Geelong needs a long-term forward who can take marks and kick goals. Think a young Tomahawk clone—but with fresh legs.
Midfield depth: Dangerfield is still elite, but he can't do it alone. The Cats need a dynamic midfielder who can win clearances and spread.
Speed and x-factor: Geelong's game style at Kardinia Park relies on precise ball movement. A quick, skillful half-forward or wingman who can break lines is gold.
Ruck support: Rhys Stanley is in the twilight of his career. A developing ruckman who can learn the ropes is a smart investment.

Here's a pro tip: Don't just look at the seniors. Geelong's VFL team is a breeding ground. If the reserves are thin in a position, the draft is the fix.

Step 2: Identify the Top Prospects That Fit Geelong's Profile

Now that you know the needs, let's talk names. The 2025 draft class is shaping up to be deep, especially in key position talent. But not every top prospect is right for Geelong. The Cats have a specific culture—they value hard work, leadership, and players who can handle the pressure of playing at GMHBA Stadium.

Prospects to watch (as of early 2025):

Harvey Langford (midfielder, 190cm): A big-bodied midfielder who wins his own footy. Reminds me of a young Dangerfield. He'd be a perfect fit for Geelong's inside midfield rotation. If he's available when the Cats pick, they'd be crazy to pass.
Josh Smillie (key forward, 198cm): This kid is a monster. Strong hands, good kicking for goal, and surprisingly mobile. He's exactly what Geelong needs to replace Hawkins' presence in the forward line. He could be a top-5 pick, so the Cats might need to trade up.
Sid Draper (small forward/midfielder, 180cm): Speed, skill, and a bit of swagger. Draper is the type of player who can ignite a game from the forward pocket or on the wing. Geelong loves these versatile types.
Luke Trainor (key defender, 194cm): Not a need right now, but if the Cats want to future-proof their backline, Trainor is a shutdown defender with excellent intercept marking. Think of him as a long-term replacement for Tom Stewart.

The reality check: Geelong will likely pick in the late first round or early second round (around pick 15-25). That means they won't get the absolute top talents unless they trade up. So focus on prospects who might slide.

Step 3: Evaluate How Each Prospect Fits Geelong's Game Plan

This is where the analysis gets fun. It's not enough to say "this kid is good." You need to ask: Does he fit how Geelong plays?

Geelong's game plan under Chris Scott is built on:

Contested ball winning: The Cats love winning the hard footy.
Precise kicking: Turnovers are punished.
Defensive pressure: Even forwards must chase and tackle.
Versatility: Players who can play multiple roles are valued.

Example analysis:

If you're looking at Harvey Langford, ask: Can he win clearances in traffic? Yes. Does he use the ball well by foot? Needs work. That's a red flag for Geelong, but not a deal-breaker if the upside is huge.
For Josh Smillie: Can he lead up the ground and present? Yes. Does he bring defensive pressure? Average. The Cats might work on that.

Pro tip: Watch highlights of prospects playing on big grounds (like the MCG) versus smaller grounds (like Kardinia Park). Geelong's home ground is unique—narrower than most. Players who can use the space well at the Cattery are worth a premium.

Step 4: Consider Geelong's Draft History and Trading Strategy

Geelong is famous for being aggressive at the trade table. They rarely sit still on draft night. In recent years, they've traded future picks to move up the order or brought in established stars (like Jeremy Cameron). Don't be surprised if the Cats make a move.

What to look for:

Will Geelong trade up? If a player like Josh Smillie is available at pick 8, but the Cats have pick 18, they might offer a future first-rounder to jump up. That's classic Geelong.
Will they trade down? If the draft is deep, the Cats might trade pick 18 for two later picks (say, 25 and 30). That gives them more shots at finding a gem.
Will they target a mature-age player? Geelong loves picking late-bloomers from the state leagues or their own VFL team. Keep an eye on Geelong VFL players who might get a shot.

Key insight: The Cats have a history of finding value in the second and third rounds. Joel Selwood was a pick 7, but Tom Hawkins was a father-son pick. Patrick Dangerfield came via trade. The draft isn't the only path.

Step 5: Mock Draft Your Own Selections

Here's where you become the recruiter. Once you've identified needs, prospects, and strategy, it's time to simulate.

How to do it:

List Geelong's current picks: Check the AFL's draft order (usually updated after trades).
Rank the top 30 prospects: Use your own rankings or borrow from draft experts.
Simulate the first two rounds: Assume other teams pick based on their needs. For example, West Coast might take a key forward early, leaving a midfielder for Geelong.
Make your picks: At each of Geelong's selections, choose the best available player who fits a need.

Example mock (hypothetical):

Pick 18: Sid Draper (small forward/midfielder)
Pick 35: A developing ruckman like Jack Whitlock
Pick 50: A project key defender

This isn't about being right—it's about thinking through the process. The more you do it, the better you'll understand the Cats' logic.

Step 6: Factor in List Management and Salary Cap

This is the boring but essential part. The draft isn't just about talent; it's about managing the salary cap and list spots.

Key questions:

How many list spots do the Cats have? If only three, they'll be selective.
Are there any free agency targets? Geelong might save cap space for a big fish in 2025 or 2026.
Will any current players be delisted? If a fringe player is cut, that opens a spot for a draftee.

Pro tip: Follow trade rumors on our trade-rumours page. If Geelong is linked to a big-name player, they might hold off on drafting that position.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned fans make these errors. Don't fall into these traps.

Falling in love with highlights: A 10-minute video can make anyone look like a star. Watch full games or at least extended highlights.
Ignoring character: Geelong values leadership and professionalism. A talented player with attitude issues is a risk.
Overvaluing one position: Just because you want a key forward doesn't mean the Cats will reach for one. Best available is often the smarter play.
Forgetting about the VFL team: Some of Geelong's best picks come from their own reserves. Keep an eye on Geelong VFL players who dominate.

The Complete Checklist for Analyzing Geelong's 2025 Draft

Use this as your go-to guide on draft night.

Identify Geelong's top three list needs (e.g., key forward, midfielder, speed)
Research the top 10-15 prospects and their fit for the Cats
Watch full game footage of at least three prospects (not just highlights)
Check Geelong's current draft picks and potential trade options
Consider the salary cap and list spots available
Mock draft the first two rounds with Geelong's picks
Factor in any trade rumors or free agency targets
Look at Geelong VFL players who could be promoted
Compare Geelong's draft history (recent picks) to this year's strategy
Make your final prediction for who the Cats will select

Bonus step: After the draft, review your analysis. Did you get it right? What did you miss? This is how you get better.

Wrapping It Up

The 2025 AFL Draft is a huge opportunity for Geelong to reload for another premiership push. With the right picks, the Cats can extend their window and keep the flag hopes alive. Whether you're watching from the stands at Kardinia Park or following along online, this checklist will help you analyze the draft like a true insider.

Want to dive deeper? Check out our young-guns-watch section for profiles of the next generation, or read up on player-profiles to see how past draftees have developed. And if you're curious about how the Cats might trade their way up the order, our trade-rumours page has you covered.

Now go impress your mates on draft night. You've got this.

Geelong Cats 2025 Draft Analysis: Key Prospects and Needs