Mark Thompson has strongly hinted his 11-year reign as Geelong coach is over, saying he's tired and "ready to do something else".

The Cats want an answer by early next week from their two-time premiership coach.

Geelong announced on Tuesday that Thompson had yet to commit to the final year of his contract because of burn-out.

A report on Friday's Herald Sun website said Thompson had already told his assistant coach Brenton Sanderson that he won't be back for the 2011 AFL season.

"I haven't told anyone that at all. I certainly haven't told Brenton Sanderson," Thompson told Channel Ten's "Before The Game" on Friday night.

"He rang me today and apologised for something he didn't say.

"I had a discussion with Cooky (Geelong chief executive Brian Cook) to say that I was tired about three or four months ago.

"That's what I am."

Thompson joked he'd had 650 text messages this week from people asking about his health following reports he was depressed.

"I'm not down or anything. I'm just ready to do something else," he said.

"You have a choice. I've got a contract for next year but I don't think the Geelong Football Club or our players or our supporters would want a person doing a job that is not up to the job.

"I think it's a great thing when someone comes forward and says 'I'm not up to it'.

"Coaching is exhausting."

Thompson is reported to be a target of new Essendon coach James Hird, Thompson's 1993 premiership team-mate with the Bombers.

"If I don't end up coaching at Geelong - and that's not decided - I'm going to take a bit of time off," Thompson said.

"There's lots of options out there. I just have to sit down once I stop coaching Geelong and work out where I go.

"My plan right now is to never coach senior footy again. It's a hard job and I think I've done enough time."

Thompson also rubbished reports he was wealthy following success with property deals.

"I need to work. I'm not as cashed up as (reports say)," he said, leaving the door open for a possible role on Hird's coaching staff.

Thompson also spoke at Geelong's best and fairest count on Thursday night, saying Geelong would continue to be successful, with or without him.

"If you have great people working at your club then it doesn't really matter who comes and goes in this world because it's just strong. It's just a strong place," he said.

"I've loved working here. I love all the players and all the people we work with."

The Cats say they need an answer by the time trade week starts on Tuesday.

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