Geelong Cats Trade Period Roundup: Every Move, Every Insight, and What It Means for 2025
The AFL trade period is always a whirlwind—a mix of hope, heartbreak, and strategic chess moves that shape the future of every club. For the Geelong Cats, this year’s trade period was no exception. With a roster already packed with talent, a few key departures, and some shrewd acquisitions, the Cats have positioned themselves for another serious crack at the AFL Premiership in the 2025 AFL Season.
If you’ve been trying to keep up with every rumor, every swap, and every draft pick shuffle, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Geelong Cats trade period—the moves that happened, the ones that didn’t, and what it all means for the Cats’ championship hopes. Let’s dive in.
Why the Trade Period Matters More Than Ever for Geelong
The AFL trade period isn’t just about swapping players—it’s about building a list that can withstand the grind of an AFL Finals Series and ultimately lift the AFL Premiership cup. For the Cats, who have been perennial contenders under Coach Scott, every trade period is a chance to reload without rebuilding.
Geelong has long been known for its “steady hand” approach: develop from within, add smart recruits, and avoid the panic moves that derail other clubs. But the 2024 trade period carried extra weight. With veterans like Joel Selwood now retired and Tom Hawkins entering the twilight of his career, the Cats needed to balance immediate success with future planning.
The result? A trade period that was measured, strategic, and—as always—a little bit unpredictable.
Key Departures: Who Left the Cattery
Let’s start with the goodbyes. Every trade period brings change, and the Cats saw a few familiar faces move on. While none of these departures were shocking, they each tell a story about Geelong’s list management philosophy.
Esava Ratugolea – A Big Loss in the Backline
One of the most talked-about moves of the period was Esava Ratugolea’s departure. After years of development, the key defender requested a trade to Port Adelaide in search of more consistent senior opportunities. The Cats ultimately obliged, securing a future second-round pick in return.
For Geelong, losing Ratugolea stings—he’s a powerful, athletic defender who can also swing forward. But with the emergence of younger defenders and the continued presence of Tom Hawkins up front, the Cats felt comfortable letting him go for the right price.
Brandan Parfitt – A Change of Scenery
Brandan Parfitt’s move to the Gold Coast Suns was another notable departure. The hard-nosed midfielder had been a regular contributor for years, but his role had diminished in the 2024 season. The Suns offered him a fresh start and a three-year deal, while Geelong received a future third-round pick.
Parfitt’s departure opens up midfield minutes for younger players—something that could pay dividends in the 2025 AFL Season.
Other Departures
- Jake Kolodjashnij (retired) – A reliable defender who played a key role in the Cats’ 2022 AFL Premiership. His leadership will be missed.
- Zach Guthrie (delisted) – After struggling to break into the senior side consistently, Guthrie was let go, with the Cats looking to refresh their depth.
New Faces at Kardinia Park
Now for the exciting part—the arrivals. The Cats added a few players who could make an immediate impact, as well as some developmental prospects for the future.
Jack Bowes – A Versatile Utility
The Cats’ biggest trade acquisition was Jack Bowes, the former Gold Coast Sun who has long been linked to Geelong. Bowes is a tall, versatile midfielder who can also play across half-back or even as a forward. His disposal efficiency and footy IQ make him a natural fit for the Cats’ system.
The trade cost Geelong a future second-round pick, which feels like a bargain for a player of Bowes’ caliber. Expect him to slot straight into the 22 in 2025.
Tanner Bruhn – Midfield Depth
Tanner Bruhn, another former Sun, joined the Cats in a separate deal. Bruhn is a young, inside midfielder who thrives in contested situations. He’s not a flashy player, but he does the dirty work—winning clearances, laying tackles, and feeding the ball to outside runners.
With Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood’s roles evolving, Bruhn provides crucial depth and a long-term option in the engine room.
Rookie Additions
The Cats also added a couple of rookie-listed players through the AFL Draft and supplemental selection period:
- Ollie Dempsey (re-drafted) – The young forward showed promise in the Geelong VFL side and will get another chance to develop.
- Mitch Knevitt (re-drafted) – A tall midfielder who impressed in the reserves, Knevitt adds height and versatility.
Draft Picks: Setting Up for the Future
The Cats entered the trade period with a handful of draft picks, and they managed them wisely. While Geelong didn’t have a top-10 pick, they still secured some promising talent.
First Pick: Pick 22 – A Key Forward
With their first selection (pick 22), the Cats drafted Jack O’Sullivan, a key forward from the Oakleigh Chargers. O’Sullivan is a strong mark with a natural goal sense—think of him as a developmental prospect who could eventually replace Tom Hawkins in the forward line.
Second Pick: Pick 38 – A Midfielder
At pick 38, Geelong selected Lachlan Charleson, an inside midfielder with excellent endurance. Charleson is a bit raw, but his work rate and leadership qualities make him a project worth investing in.
Later Picks
- Pick 54 – Harry De Mattia (small forward)
- Pick 68 – Josh Trew (defender)
The State of the List: Strengths and Weaknesses
After all the moves, where does the Geelong Cats list stand heading into the 2025 AFL Season? Let’s break it down.
Strengths
- Midfield Depth – With Patrick Dangerfield, Cam Guthrie, Tanner Bruhn, Jack Bowes, and the continued emergence of Max Holmes, the Cats have one of the deepest midfields in the AFL competition.
- Defensive Stability – Tom Stewart, Jack Henry, and Mark Blicavs form a formidable backline. The addition of Jack Bowes adds another tall option.
- Forward Line – Tom Hawkins remains a force, and Jeremy Cameron is still one of the most dangerous forwards in the game. Gryan Miers and Brad Close provide small forward pressure.
Weaknesses
- Ageing Core – The Cats’ best players are getting older. Hawkins (36), Dangerfield (33), and Stewart (32) are still elite, but their window is narrowing.
- Key Forward Depth – Behind Hawkins and Cameron, there’s a drop-off. The Cats will hope Jack O’Sullivan develops quickly.
- Ruck Situation – Rhys Stanley is still the number one ruck, but he’s 33. The Cats need to find a long-term solution.
How the Trade Period Impacts the 2025 AFL Season
So, what does all this mean for the 2025 AFL Season? In short: the Cats are still contenders, but there are question marks.
Immediate Impact Players
- Jack Bowes – Expect him to play 20+ games and be a key contributor in the midfield and half-back.
- Tanner Bruhn – He’ll push for a regular spot in the 22, likely rotating through the midfield and forward line.
Development Players to Watch
- Jack O’Sullivan – Don’t expect him to play many games in 2025, but he’s the future of the forward line.
- Ollie Dempsey – If he can build on his VFL form, he could be a surprise packet.
The Chris Scott Factor
Coach Scott has a knack for squeezing the most out of his list. Even with some departures, the Cats’ system—built on pressure, smart ball movement, and defensive accountability—remains intact. Don’t be surprised if Geelong finishes in the top four again.
Practical Tips for Following the Cats in 2025
Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a casual fan, here are a few ways to stay engaged with the Geelong Cats this season:
- Watch the Draft Prospects – Keep an eye on Jack O’Sullivan and Lachlan Charleson in the VFL. They’re the future.
- Track the Midfield Rotation – With Dangerfield, Bowes, Bruhn, and Holmes all competing for spots, the midfield mix will be fascinating.
- Follow the Kardinia Park Redevelopment – The stadium upgrade is ongoing, and it’ll make GMHBA Stadium even more of a fortress.
- Check Out Our Club Milestones Timeline – Want to know when the Cats won their first AFL Premiership? Our club milestones timeline has you covered.
- Get into Fantasy Footy – If you play AFL fantasy, the Cats have some bargain picks. Our fantasy footy basics guide can help you build a winning team.
The Bottom Line
The Geelong Cats trade period was a masterclass in list management. The Cats lost some depth, but they added quality players who fit their system. Jack Bowes and Tanner Bruhn will contribute immediately, while the draft picks provide hope for the future.
Yes, the window is narrowing, but with Chris Scott at the helm and a core of champions still playing elite footy, Geelong is far from done. The 2025 AFL Season could be another memorable chapter in the club’s storied history.
If you’re just getting started with the Cats, our getting started guide will bring you up to speed on everything from the club’s origins to its modern-day dominance.
Go Cats.
Want more Geelong Cats analysis? Bookmark this page and check back for season previews, game recaps, and insider insights. The road to the AFL Grand Final starts now.
Reader Comments (0)