Cat tight-lipped on premiership forward's future

Geelong premiership defender Tom Stewart has remained tight-lipped on the future of three-time premiership teammate Tom Hawkins, after the Cats' finals hopes came to an end on Saturday.

The Cats have decided to rest Hawkins ahead of their final game against the Western Bulldogs, with questions raised over possible retirement.

But Stewart was adamant that the 346-game veteran and five-time All-Australian has earned the right to make a call on his own, with the defender throwing his support behind whatever choice is made.

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"He's got a decision to make, but I think he's earned that right to make that with his family and what their preference is moving forward," Stewart told media on Tuesday.

It comes as Geelong has decided to rest premiership forward Jeremy Cameron on Saturday, sending him for shoulder surgery in hopes of a quick recovery to complete a full pre-season.

Stewart however sees the loss of their two key forwards as an opportunity for younger players to have a run before the end of the season, including big man Toby Conway, who dominated in the VFL on Saturday.

"It's an opportunity for others to step in. We've had a lot of growth from individuals we may not have had to, so it's another chance to put their best foot forward and to pull on the hoops, which is a massive privilege in itself," Stewart said.

The Cats' round 24 clash against the Dogs will be Stewart's only game so far in his career where there is no way the Cats can win the flag.

"I've actually played finals every single year, so it's definitely new to me, personally," he said.

"I understand how lucky I am to be able to play for Geelong every week, so my motivation doesn't wane."

The Cats face the desperate Bulldogs, who must beat Geelong to keep their slim finals hopes alive. The Dogs must also hope the Giants lose to Carlton in order to jump into eighth on the ladder.

The Bulldogs will be without Jack Macrae (delayed concussion symptoms) and Taylor Duryea, who had his one-match suspension upheld for a bump on Eagle Jamie Cripps.