The Rise of Marcus Herbert: A VFL Star on the Brink of AFL Dreams
After six years in the VFL system, Marcus Herbert is steadily making his mark as a rising star with the potential to break through to the AFL level. The Geelong midfielder-defender, who has been with the club since 2021 after joining from the Coates Talent League side Greater Western Victoria Rebels, is now being closely watched as the 2026 AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft approaches on May 26.
Herbert has played 62 games for the Cats and has grown into a dominant force within the VFL. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he won the club’s best-and-fairest award in 2025 and was selected to represent the VFL state squad in a match against the SANFL earlier this year. With his name circulating among clubland, it’s clear that Herbert is building a compelling case for an AFL opportunity.
Motivation Through Overlooked Moments
Herbert has spoken openly about how the pain of being overlooked in previous drafts fuels his motivation each week. He told Zero Hanger that the desire to play at AFL level drives him to perform consistently and prove his worth on the field.
“I think the main thing that keeps me going is the thought of playing at AFL level,” Herbert said. “It’s disappointing at times, but I use that to push myself harder every game. I want to show why I believe I could and should be playing at that level.”
This mindset has helped him maintain focus and continue improving, even when the spotlight hasn’t always been on him.
A Versatile Player with a Bright Future
Herbert works as a personal trainer and support worker while living in Geelong. Although AFL clubs have shown interest in the past, he feels this is the most positive dialogue his manager, Jase Farmer from Pacific Sports Management, has had with teams.
As many as five or six clubs have expressed interest in Herbert, with nine currently having spots available in the Mid-Season Rookie Draft. This number could increase as teams place players on inactive lists due to long-term injuries.
His recent performance against Werribee, where he collected 34 disposals, seven tackles, and two goals, highlighted his ability as a damaging midfielder. But Herbert also feels comfortable breaking lines off half-back, bringing a unique skill set to an AFL club.
“Ball use and IQ are key strengths,” he said. “I can play off a half-back or as a mid, trying to handle both inside and outside roles. If I’m in the midfield, I aim to hunt for the ball, and if not, I look to break lines and penetrate forward by foot or under the wing.”
Herbert prefers not to play full-time on the wing, but he believes that adding versatility to his game—such as being a goal-kicking midfielder—would make him a valuable asset.
A Sporting Family and Roots in Warrnambool
Growing up in the south-west Victorian beachside town of Warrnambool, Herbert spent much of his childhood competing with his brothers and friends on the football field and basketball court. His family has a strong sporting legacy, with his brother Liam representing Australia in the national under-17s side.
Herbert learned the fundamentals of football at his local club, South Warrnambool, which is part of the Hampden league. The club has produced several top-grade talents, including former Collingwood player Jay Rantall and the Stevens boys, who have all gone on to play at a high level.
“I did most of my juniors at South,” Herbert said. “We had great players there, and it was a privilege to play alongside them. I was lucky enough to return to the club recently for a game during Geelong’s bye, and it was good to put the red and white on again.”
Although he played more basketball than football growing up, Herbert transitioned to football as his basketball career began to wind down. He remains passionate about sports and sees football as a lifelong pursuit.
Embracing Maturity and Potential
Herbert believes there are plenty of mature-age players in the VFL who could benefit AFL clubs. He argues that while young talent is abundant, some teams may need experienced players to help bridge the gap.
“I feel like there are a lot of players out there, either my age or older, who are ready-made and could boost a few sides,” he said. “With so much young talent around, like at Richmond and other teams, they might need a few more years to develop. Having some mature-agers could definitely help.”
Herbert’s journey from the VFL to the AFL is still unfolding, but his determination, versatility, and passion for the game suggest that he is well on his way to making a lasting impact at the highest level.
