WITH season proper and trade period done and dusted, AFL fans and staff alike now turn their attention towards the draft (November 28-30). The chaos has settled on player and pick swaps, and budding prospects have completed their combines, leaving a nervous wait until they learn their fate.

In the next of our club by club previews, we take a look at Geelong’s draft hand and offer insight into how the Cats may utilise the picks at their possession. With pick seven at the ready and a couple of club-tied prospects to boot, they can replenish their stocks nicely.

2022 FINISH: 1st

CURRENT PICKS: 7, 58

FUTURE PICKS: GEE R1

ACADEMY/FATHER-SON NOMINEES: Ted Clohesy, Osca Riccardi

FIRST PICK OPTIONS:

Jhye Clark is the player who has been most heavily linked to Geelong ever since the club captured pick seven. The local talent has drawn comparisons to retiring Cats champion Joel Selwood for his toughness, contested acumen and leadership quality, but a midfielder of his type may not be in Geelong’s plans, having already recruited Jack Bowes and Tanner Bruhn.

While the likes of Elijah Tsatas, Bailey Humphrey and Reuben Ginbey may all come into consideration if available, the Cats seem more likely to shift in a different direction. Long-term key defensive depth is an area to target, and West Australian tall Jedd Busslinger fits the bill. If not, utility Edward Allan draws similarities to Mark Blicavs, and would offer the same renowned versatility for the future.

REMAINING CROP:

The Cats only hold one more pick in the National Draft as it stands, all the way back in the third round. They are known to pull surprises out of the bag and may have a couple in their sights late on night two. Though with only one future pick (round one) to work with, their trading options are quite slim.

Club-tied talents Ted Clohesy and Osca Riccardi have developed through the Geelong Falcons pathway and the Cats are committed to them both as rookies. Irish recruit Oisin Mullin will also finally join as a Category B rookie, having signed with the club last year.

KEY QUESTIONS:

– Will Geelong opt for a powerful midfielder, or long-term defensive cover with pick seven?
– Does local talent Jhye Clark suit Geelong’s needs?
– What value can Geelong extract late in the draft?