The Geelong Cats are pleased to announce young ruckman Mitch Edwards has signed a two-year contract extension to remain at Geelong until at least the end of 2030, while Jay Polkinghorne, Lenny Hofmann, Cillian Burke and Nick Driscoll have all recommitted for the 2027 season.
Edwards’ new deal caps a significant period of growth for the emerging ruckman, who made his AFL debut in Round 1 this season against Fremantle.
Drafted with Pick 32 in the 2023 AFL Draft, Edwards joined Geelong from Peel Thunder and South Mandurah in Western Australia.
After spending his first two seasons developing his craft, Edwards has featured in 13 games in 2026, playing an important role in the side’s ruck mix.
Across 2026, Edwards has averaged 20.4 hit outs per game and competed against some of the competition's leading ruckmen, continuing to show his growing presence around the ground.
Geelong Cats Executive General Manager of Football Andrew Mackie said the Club was excited to see Edwards continue his career with the Cats.
“Mitch has shown real growth since arriving at the Club. He has all the right attributes and temperament to continue developing, and we’re excited to see him continue to build his game.”
Jay Polkinghorne, Lenny Hofmann, Cillian Burke and Nick Driscoll have also signed new deals to remain at Geelong for the 2027 season.
Polkinghorne has built consistency across the 2026 VFL season, kicking 16 goals across the last five matches and providing a reliable target in Geelong's forward line.
Hofmann has continued to influence in defence, with his athleticism generating drive from the back half, averaging 21 disposals per game.
Burke has put together a consistent campaign in defence, averaging 14.9 disposals per game while combining strong intercept marking with composure and sound decision-making in possession.
Driscoll has continued to develop his midfield-forward craft, averaging 14.9 disposals a game across multiple roles, with his transition running, speed and agility making him an asset.
“Jay, Lenny, Cillian and Nick have all made strong contributions at VFL level this season.
“They are exciting young players, who have all shown a strong willingness to learn and we’re pleased to have them continue to develop at the Cats in 2027.”
These re-signings follow that of defender Mark O’Connor and forward Oli Wiltshire.
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