The perpetually impressive Geelong did everything right in 2024 but faltered at the penultimate weekend, denying the club a chance at premiership glory.
The Cats have been the perfect blueprint for regenerating their list on the go, and with the messiah Chris Scott at the helm, the team down the highway continues to get their mix right on and off the field.
The inclusion of Bailey Smith will add some much-needed firepower through the midfield, whilst also placing a lesser reliance on their ageing stars in Patrick Dangerfield, Mitch Duncan and Cam Guthrie.
And with a strong back six coupled with a dangerous forward line, there's no indication that Geelong won't be contending once again.
Ahead of the new season, we've assessed Geelong's 2025 squad and selected a best 23-man side, breaking down their depth charts on all three lines of the field.
Our Best 23 for 2025 series will include players unavailable for the start of the season, except for those expected to miss most or all of the season through injury or suspension.
Forwards
Geelong have little to worry about inside forward 50, ranking third for points for in 2024 and boasting a seriously stacked line-up.
Led by star player Jeremy Cameron, Scott has at his disposal an All-Australian small forward, a Rising Star winner and two of the best two-way runners in the competition.
From being discarded by two clubs to the penthouse in Geelong, Tyson Stengle's story continues to prove that dreams can come true.
Oliver Dempsey trumped all-comers with an extraordinary 2024 campaign that resulted in being crowned the competition's best young player.
Gryan Miers and Brad Close provide a hefty one-two punch in between the arcs, helping out on defence and usually, the ones delivering the ball inside 50 to good effect, of which Shaun Mannagh is learning beautifully.
Oliver Henry's versatility makes him a nightmare to match up on while Shannon Neale is developing nicely into a focal point of the forward line.
Add the mysterious Jack Martin, who crossed from Carlton with a long history of injuries, but when fit and firing, is one of the more exciting players in the front half.
And with the inclusion of Bailey Smith, captain Patrick Dangerfield should be seen more inside 50.
