So you want to build the ultimate Geelong Cats lineup for the 2025 AFL season? You've come to the right place. Whether you're debating with mates at the pub, posting your hot takes online, or just trying to get a handle on how Coach Scott might line up his troops come Round 1, this checklist will walk you through exactly how to construct a credible predicted best 22.

By the end of this guide, you'll have a lineup that accounts for form, fitness, positional needs, and the unique challenges of playing at Kardinia Park. Let's dive in.

What You'll Need Before You Start

Before you start scribbling names on a whiteboard, make sure you've got these basics covered:

A solid understanding of the Cats' current list – know who's been drafted, who's retired, and who's been traded in or out.
Injury and recovery updates – especially for veterans like Dangerfield and Hawkins, who might be managed through the preseason.
Recent VFL form – the Geelong VFL team often provides the next wave of talent, so keep an eye on who's pushing for senior selection.
Knowledge of the 2025 fixture – home games at GMHBA Stadium vs. away games at the MCG or Marvel Stadium can influence your selection choices.
A willingness to be wrong – because let's face it, Coach Scott loves throwing a curveball.

Step-by-Step Process: Building Your Predicted Best 22

Step 1: Lock in Your Non-Negotiables

Every best 22 starts with the players who are absolute certainties. These are the stars who, barring injury or suspension, will be written into the lineup in permanent marker.

Start with your spine: Hawkins at full-forward, Dangerfield through the midfield, and your key defensive pillars. For 2025, that likely means names like Tom Stewart, Mark Blicavs, and the ever-reliable Dangerfield are locked. Don't forget the young guns who've already cemented their spots – players like Max Holmes and Tanner Bruhn are no longer just prospects; they're core.

Pro tip: Don't overthink this step. If a player is a two-time All-Australian or has been in the Cats' leadership group for three years, they're in.

Step 2: Assess the Ageing Core

Here's where it gets tricky. The Cats have a few legends approaching the twilight of their careers. Joel Selwood has already hung up the boots, but Tom Hawkins and Patrick Dangerfield are still going. However, you need to be realistic about their workloads.

For Hawkins: He'll likely play as the primary key forward, but expect him to be managed through the season. In your best 22, he's there, but you might want to pencil in a backup ruck-forward like Shannon Neale or a developing tall.

For Dangerfield: He's transitioning into more of a half-forward role, with bursts through the middle. Your predicted lineup should reflect that – don't expect him to be a full-time on-baller anymore.

Common mistake: Assuming veterans will play 22 games. Plan for 16-18 games and build depth accordingly.

Step 3: Evaluate the Draft and Trade Haul

The AFL Draft and trade period will shape your best 22 more than anything else. By 2025, the Cats will have had a couple of draft cycles to integrate new talent.

Look for: First-round draft picks who've had a year or two of development. If the Cats snagged a key position player or a speedy midfielder in the 2023 or 2024 drafts, they could be pushing for a spot.

Also consider: Any trade acquisitions. If Geelong brought in a ready-made player from another club (think a Jeremy Cameron-style move), they're almost certainly in your 22.

Check the VFL form: The Geelong VFL team is your best indicator. Who dominated at that level last season? Players like Ollie Dempsey or Jhye Clark might be ready to step up.

Step 4: Balance the Positions

A best 22 isn't just about picking your 22 best players – it's about picking a team that works together. You need:

Three key defenders (one intercept, one lockdown, one third tall)
Three key forwards (Hawkins plus two others)
At least two genuine ruck options (one primary, one backup)
A mix of inside and outside midfielders
Small forwards who can apply pressure and kick goals
Wingmen with elite endurance

For Kardinia Park: The narrower ground at GMHBA Stadium means you can afford to pick more contested-ball winners. On bigger MCG decks, you'll need more speed and spread.

Example: If you're picking a team for a home game, you might go with an extra inside mid. For a Grand Final at the MCG, you'd want more running power.

Step 5: Account for the "Chris Scott Factor"

Coach Scott is known for his tactical flexibility. He loves versatile players who can play multiple roles. Your best 22 should reflect that.

Look for swingmen: Players like Mark Blicavs can play ruck, midfield, or defence. Jack Henry can go forward or back. Include at least three or four players who can shift positions during a game.

Don't forget the "sub" role: While the AFL has tinkered with the substitute rule, having a player who can come on and impact the game is crucial. In your 22, designate one player as the "impact sub" – think a speedster like Shaun Mannagh or a young mid with burst.

Step 6: Factor in the 2025 Season Context

The 2025 AFL Season won't be played in a vacuum. Consider:

The fixture: How many games at Kardinia Park vs. Marvel or the MCG? More home games might let you pick a taller team.
The travel load: The Cats often have to fly to Perth or Brisbane. Your best 22 for a home game might differ from a road trip.
The finals push: If you're predicting the 22 for Round 1, it might be different from what you'd pick for a hypothetical AFL Finals Series run. Veterans might be rested early; younger players might get a chance.

Also consider: The Kardinia Park Redevelopment might be complete or ongoing. A bigger, modernised stadium could change how the Cats approach their home games.

Step 7: Use External Resources for Validation

Don't build your 22 in a vacuum. Cross-reference with:

Social media buzz: Our social media roundup section often highlights fan debates and expert opinions. See what the consensus is on borderline selections.
Breakout stars to watch: Check our breakout stars to watch article for young players who might leapfrog established names.
Season previews: Our main season previews hub will have official predictions from the club and analysts.

Pro tip: If you're unsure about a player, look at their contract status. Players entering the final year of their deal often have something to prove.

Step 8: Write It Down and Defend It

Once you've got your 22, write it out with positions. A typical format:

Backs: [Name], [Name], [Name] Half-backs: [Name], [Name], [Name] Centres: [Name], [Name], [Name] Half-forwards: [Name], [Name], [Name] Forwards: [Name], [Name], [Name] Followers: [Name], [Name], [Name] Interchange: [Name], [Name], [Name], [Name]

Then, be prepared to justify every selection. Why did you pick that third tall defender over another? Why is that young mid on the bench instead of a veteran?

Common mistake: Picking a player just because of their reputation. If a former Brownlow Medal contender is injured or out of form, leave them out.

Pro Tips and Common Mistakes

Pro Tips

Watch the preseason games. The AAMI Community Series (or whatever it's called in 2025) gives you a direct look at who's in form.
Follow the injury list religiously. A hamstring strain in February can completely change your 22.
Don't sleep on the mature-age recruits. The Cats love picking up state league players who are ready to go.
Consider the captaincy. If the Cats name a new captain for 2025, that player is almost certainly in the 22.
Remember the ruck situation. With Rhys Stanley getting older, who's the backup? A developing ruck from the VFL team could be your surprise inclusion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring the salary cap. You can't have all stars. There will be role players on smaller contracts who are crucial for structure.
Overrating draft picks. Just because a player was taken early in the AFL Draft doesn't mean they're ready for Round 1.
Forgetting about the "third man up" rule. If the rules change again, it could affect how you pick your rucks.
Picking a team that's too tall or too short. Balance is everything.
Assuming last year's 22 is this year's 22. Lists change fast in the AFL.

Checklist Summary: Your Predicted Best 22 Blueprint

Here's your quick-reference checklist to build the ultimate Geelong Cats lineup for 2025:

Lock in non-negotiables – Stewart, Blicavs, Dangerfield, Hawkins, and other established stars.
Assess the ageing core – Plan for managed games from veterans.
Evaluate draft and trade hauls – Include any new faces who've earned a spot.
Balance positions – Ensure you have the right mix of talls, smalls, inside and outside players.
Account for the Chris Scott factor – Pick versatile players who can play multiple roles.
Factor in the 2025 season context – Consider the fixture, travel, and stadium redevelopment.
Validate with external resources – Check social media, previews, and breakout stars.
Write it down and defend it – Format your 22 with positions and be ready to justify each pick.
Review and revise – Update your 22 as preseason form and injuries become clear.

Remember, this is supposed to be fun. The beauty of predicting the Cats' best 22 is that you're almost certainly going to be wrong – but that's half the enjoyment. Coach Scott will throw in a surprise selection, a young gun will come from nowhere, and you'll be back at the drawing board.

But with this checklist, you'll at least have a solid foundation. Now go build that lineup, share it on social media, and get ready for the 2025 AFL season. Go Cats!

Predicted Best 22 for Geelong Cats in 2025: Your Complete How-To Guide