Geelong veteran Jimmy Bartel remains unsure if he will continue his decorated AFL career next season.
The 32-year-old says he is in no hurry to make a decision and is yet to even discuss his playing future with Cats coach Chris Scott.
Bartel's future became a point of conjecture late in the season when his form dipped, but he has the option of playing on having triggered a clause in his current contract.
"It seems a long way away at the moment," Bartel said of continuing his 305-game career next season.
"I've got to catch up with the coaches and have a good chat about footy.
"In time I'll make a decision."
The 2007 Brownlow medallist made 22 senior appearances for Geelong in 2016, but faces the prospect of spending time in the VFL if he does play on.
The Cats' season came to an end with a preliminary final loss to Sydney and Bartel said he has taken some time to clear his head before making his decision.
"(Retirement) is always a thought once you get to my stage of my career but I haven't formed an opinion or made a decision," he said.
"I'm just waiting to have a chat with Chris Scott and the guys. I'm sure that will be a really open and honest conversation.
"That will happen in the coming weeks. There's no rush (since) there's no football on now and a lot of people are on holidays."
Bartel spoke to reporters on Tuesday after he had his beard shaved off to promote his anti domestic violence message.
