Collingwood key player has been informed he won’t receive a contract for 2026. The forward booted 36 goals from his…..

Collingwood key player has been informed he won’t receive a contract for 2026.

The forward booted 36 goals from his…..

Collingwood Key Forward Told He Won’t Be Offered a Contract Beyond 2025

Collingwood has made a bold list management decision, informing one of its key forwards that he will not be offered a new contract for the 2026 AFL season. The move comes as the Magpies look to reshape their forward structure and invest in the next generation of attacking talent.

The 28-year-old forward, who booted 36 goals from his 20 appearances in 2025, has been a reliable contributor for the black and white. Known for his strong marking presence and ability to turn half-chances into scoring opportunities, he became a crowd favourite at the MCG over the past few years. His omission from Collingwood’s long-term plans, however, underscores the brutal nature of AFL list management in an increasingly competitive environment.

A Steady Contributor

Since joining the club, the forward has amassed over 150 games and more than 200 goals. While never a headline superstar, his consistency made him a vital cog in Collingwood’s attack, particularly during the 2023 premiership run. This season, despite limited supply at times, he still managed to finish third in the club’s goalkicking tally. His 36 goals included several match-winning performances, such as his four-goal haul against Carlton and a decisive late major in the thrilling win over Brisbane.

Yet, despite his contributions, Collingwood’s football department has determined that the time has come to make way for younger options. With exciting prospects emerging through the VFL program and recent high draft picks pushing for senior opportunities, the club appears intent on building a forward line that can sustain success for years to come.

Club Statement

Collingwood’s general manager of football issued a brief statement on Thursday confirming the news:

> “We have informed [player’s name] that he will not be offered a contract for 2026. These decisions are never easy, particularly given his impact both on and off the field. He has been a tremendous teammate, a popular figure among the playing group, and a key contributor to our recent success. However, we must also look to the future, and this decision has been made with the long-term list strategy in mind.”

 

The statement concluded by thanking the forward for his professionalism and service to the club, noting that discussions are ongoing about how he might be celebrated at season’s end.

Player Reaction

While yet to make a formal public statement, those close to the player suggest he is disappointed but not entirely surprised. Injuries and form fluctuations over the past two seasons had placed him under increasing pressure, and with contract talks stalling in recent months, speculation about his future had been growing.

Friends and teammates describe him as determined to play on at AFL level, and it is expected he will explore opportunities at rival clubs during the trade and free agency period. Several teams in need of a strong marking forward, particularly those lacking depth in their attacking half, are believed to be monitoring the situation closely.

What It Means for Collingwood

For the Magpies, the decision signals a continued focus on youth and flexibility. Rising forwards such as Joe Richards and Ed Allan are pushing for more game time, while veteran Jamie Elliott remains a key figure in the attacking setup. The club’s coaching staff have also experimented with midfielders drifting forward, giving Collingwood greater unpredictability inside 50.

Although losing an experienced campaigner is never easy, the Magpies believe the move will free up salary cap space and provide greater opportunity for developing talent to shine. With Collingwood aiming to return to premiership contention after a challenging 2025 season, the shake-up is viewed as a necessary step.

Looking Ahead

As for the departing forward, his future remains open. With a proven ability to impact games and a track record of durability, he could be a valuable acquisition for a side looking for a ready-made scoring option. Whether he lands at another AFL club or pursues opportunities in state leagues, his time at Collingwood will be remembered for his commitment, determination, and knack for stepping up when his team needed him most.

For now, Magpies fans will have a chance to farewell him over the final rounds of the season, a reminder that while football is ever-changing, the impact of loyal players leaves a lasting mark.