GEELONG could turn its attention to its slew of free agents after finalizing a two-year contract extension for young defender Jed Bews. 

Bews, who is now tied to the Cats until the end of the 2017 season, was locked away on Friday after playing every game this season. 

His signature could now allow the Cats to prioritise the futures of free agents Jimmy Bartel, Andrew Mackie, Jared Rivers, Mathew Stokes and Steve Johnson. 

The Cats are also warding off interest in talented half-forward Steven Motlop, who has been linked to Richmond as he approaches the end of his contract.

Bews, who is the son of former Geelong captain Andrew Bews, said it was only a matter of when he would re-sign with the Cats.

"There was no real decision, as soon as they offered it I was more than happy to take it," he told the club's website.

"I’m starting to feel a bit more at home in the back six, which is good.

"I’m starting to get some games together, last year I was in and out but this year I’ve been lucky enough to play every game so far."

Bews was recruited with pick No.86 in the 2011 NAB AFL Draft under the father-son rule, and he has played 20 games for the Cats since his debut in round nine last year. 

Football manager Steve Hocking said the club was pleased to secure the hard-nosed 21-year-old.

"After spending two full seasons in our VFL program, Jed’s AFL debut was well-earned and he hasn’t looked back since," Hocking said. 

"Jed has made some great progress and the fact he hasn’t missed an AFL game this season proves that.

"The club is excited about the player Jed will become in the future."