GEELONG champion Matthew Scarlett will join the Cats in a full-time capacity next season as he pursues a career as an AFL coach.

Scarlett, who won three premierships at Geelong in 284 matches, spent 2015 in a part-time development role and will ramp up his commitment in 2016.

Captain Joel Selwood backed Scarlett when asked if he could one day become a senior coach.

"I do (think he could become a senior coach)," Selwood told Channel Nine.

"He worked full-time hours this year so it wouldn't look too different if he was to come into the (assistant) role next year. He worked in development area of the football club this year.

"I wouldn't be surprised if he was to be there a lot more." 

Scarlett has stepped down from his position as co-coach of local Geelong club South Barwon and is tipped to not take the field in a playing capacity next year.