The 2019 VFL Best & Fairest will be a tightly contested count with numerous young Cats set to feature prominently.

Will another VFL listed player claim the top honour or will we see the first AFL listed winner since 2014?

Let’s take a look at some of the contenders.


James Parsons

Frequently named among the AFL Cats’ emergencies, James Parsons was on the fringe all season. He can thank his incredible form at VFL level for that, often named amongst the best players in Shane O’Bree’s side. From Round 13 onwards, Parsons averaged over 27 disposals and a goal per contest, so look for him to come home strongly in the Best & Fairest count.


Ben Reid

No stranger to a strong best & fairest showing after his podium finish in 2017. Reid exceeded expectations in that debut season, claiming 309 votes in the Cats’ B&F to claim second place behind James Tsitas. He was arguably the Cats’ most consistent defender in 2019 and with 19 games under his belt this season, Reid is set to feature among the top players again.

Sam Simpson

Despite not featuring at AFL level, 2019 was undoubtably Sam Simpson’s best in a Geelong uniform. The classy on-baller impressed in an increased role in the Cats’ midfield while also developing a knack for finding the goals. Simpson is at his best in traffic, with elite footwork and an uncanny ability to dodge defenders, the young Cat was a crucial cog in the VFL Cats’ midfield machine.

Jacob Kennerley

The most consistent performer of the Cats’ 2019 crop of draftees, Kennerley averaged 13 touches and three tackles across 18 solid games. The young Cat was often found darting down the wing, with his pace proving to be a real asset for Shane O’Bree’s side. While consistency was his strength, Kennerley also showed how damaging he can be with ball in hand. His 12-disposal first quarter in Round 15 gave Cats fans a glimpse of what they can look forward to in years to come.

Jackson McLachlan

After four rounds last season, McLachlan was the outright leader in the VFL Cats’ B&F and for good reason. Despite often being the shortest player on the field, the impact McLachlan has on games is massive. The St. Joseph’s product became a regular fixture at VFL level this year and rewarded O’Bree’s faith with 17 disposals and four tackles per game. His 25-disposal, three-goal effort in round eight is sure to receive maximum votes from the coaches. Of the VFL listed players, McLachlan looks to be the best chance to take out the award on Thursday night.

Jamaine Jones

The decision to move Jamaine Jones to a half back flank proved successful, with Jones able to use his assets more effectively in 2019. His tackling pressure and blistering pace were on show every week and the move down back enabled Jones to break lines like never before. Despite the defensive switch, Jones kicked 15 goals from his 17 games while averaging 14 disposals and five tackles per match.

READ - CUNICO AND JONES TO DEPART


Wylie Buzza

The spiritual leader of the VFL squad. Buzza exemplifies the values of the Cats’ VFL program with his dedication to getting the most out of himself and his teammates. The key forward became a much more rounded player in 2019, regularly finding ways to bring his teammates into the game while kicking 32 goals himself. Buzza kicked multiple goals in 11 out of his 17 matches including a five-goal best on ground effort against the Magpies in round seven.

Ryan Abbott

The plethora of talls on Geelong’s list were often squeezed into the VFL side and the likes of Zac Smith, Darcy Fort and Ryan Abbott frequently battled for the number one ruck mantle. The latter played 16 games, with his trademark versatility remaining a key part of his game despite the crowded ruck department. In the VFL, there are not many ruckmen who can win the ground ball or tackle like Abbott and he will likely feature prominently in the Cats B&F count.