Ex-Collingwood star Mason Cox makes bold proclamation after AFL lifeline

Former Collingwood star Mason Cox has made an eye-opening remark after being handed a lifeline with a rival team.

Matthew Sullivan, Tyson Otto and Ben Talintyre

November 26, 2025 - 8:41AM

news.com.au

Mason Cox has been given a rookie deal lifeline by the Dockers after being let go by Collingwood. The American has already made a splash in the west, declaring Fremantle’s list the most talented in the AFL. “It might be bullish to say but I do think it’s the best list in the comp to be honest. Hopefully I can add a bit of experience to continue that success,” he said to Freo media.

1/84Mason Cox has been given a rookie deal lifeline by the Dockers after being let go by Collingwood. The American has already made a splash in the west, declaring Fremantle’s list the most talented in the AFL. “It might be bullish to say but I do think it’s the best list in the comp to be honest. Hopefully I can add a bit of experience to continue that success,” he said to Freo media.

He was delisted by Collingwood following the Trade Period after spending 10 seasons at the club which saw him play in 139 games and kick 127 goals, Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images.

2/84He was delisted by Collingwood following the Trade Period after spending 10 seasons at the club which saw him play in 139 games and kick 127 goals, Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images.

Essendon rejected Hawthorn’s offer of four first-round draft picks for Zach Merrett, and the trade deadline passed without a deal being done. It means Merrett has been forced to return to the club against his will, despite having a long term contract with the club. One can only imagine how awkward the conversations have been as he returned to pre-season training. Essendon legend James Hird said there’s a possibility Merrett could remain captain, but he would have to mend a lot of bridges. (Photo by Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

3/84Essendon rejected Hawthorn’s offer of four first-round draft picks for Zach Merrett, and the trade deadline passed without a deal being done. It means Merrett has been forced to return to the club against his will, despite having a long term contract with the club. One can only imagine how awkward the conversations have been as he returned to pre-season training. Essendon legend James Hird said there’s a possibility Merrett could remain captain, but he would have to mend a lot of bridges. (Photo by Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Zach Merrett returned to Essendon training at the Hangar this week. The current Bombers skipper was back training with teammates on Friday, over a week before he was due to return on Monday, November 24. Picture: charliedons/IG.

4/84Zach Merrett returned to Essendon training at the Hangar this week. The current Bombers skipper was back training with teammates on Friday, over a week before he was due to return on Monday, November 24. Picture: charliedons/IG.

Callum Ah Chee is yet to leave Brisbane after the Lions wouldn’t accept Adelaide’s offer of a future second round pick and future third round pick for the out-of-contract forward. “This was a shock, I thought this one would get done,” reporter AFL Twomey told Nine’s Footy Furnace. “This is rare, especially for a back-to-back premiership player who’s not leaving on bad terms.” Brisbane list manager Dom Ambrogio said: “At the end of the day, we just didn’t think that was fair value for a player of Cal’s calibre.” Adelaide have a five-year offer for Ah Chee, who is looking for a pay rise and security after being a loyal servant to the Lions. The Crows will have to pick him up in the pre-season draft, but West Coast have the first pick in the pre-season draft and could try and pick Ah Chee, given the Eagles have plenty of salary cap space. To stop teams swooping on Ah Chee, Tom Morris said Adelaide “will top up the first two years of Ah Chee’s contract to a very large sum, maybe even more than $1m and that will mean that no other club will go near him.”Photo: Albert Perez/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

5/84Callum Ah Chee is yet to leave Brisbane after the Lions wouldn’t accept Adelaide’s offer of a future second round pick and future third round pick for the out-of-contract forward. “This was a shock, I thought this one would get done,” reporter AFL Twomey told Nine’s Footy Furnace. “This is rare, especially for a back-to-back premiership player who’s not leaving on bad terms.” Brisbane list manager Dom Ambrogio said: “At the end of the day, we just didn’t think that was fair value for a player of Cal’s calibre.” Adelaide have a five-year offer for Ah Chee, who is looking for a pay rise and security after being a loyal servant to the Lions. The Crows will have to pick him up in the pre-season draft, but West Coast have the first pick in the pre-season draft and could try and pick Ah Chee, given the Eagles have plenty of salary cap space. To stop teams swooping on Ah Chee, Tom Morris said Adelaide “will top up the first two years of Ah Chee’s contract to a very large sum, maybe even more than $1m and that will mean that no other club will go near him.”Photo: Albert Perez/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

Adelaide say they’re committed to bring Callum Ah Chee to the Crows despite the trade falling through. Ah Chee’s manager Ben Williams said: “I’m disappointed in Brisbane.” Crows list boss Justin Reid said: “We know we’ll see this through for Cal and treat him the way he should be.” But West Coast and Port Adelaide are sniffing around, with Power list manager Jason Cripps saying: “The Callum situation has only just arisen in the last 24 hours. We’ll have that discussion internally and I’ll certainly be having that discussion with his manager, just to see what that may look like.” It would be a disaster for the Lions if they didn’t get anything in exchange for Ah Chee and he walked to another club for free. Picture Lachie Millard

6/84Adelaide say they’re committed to bring Callum Ah Chee to the Crows despite the trade falling through. Ah Chee’s manager Ben Williams said: “I’m disappointed in Brisbane.” Crows list boss Justin Reid said: “We know we’ll see this through for Cal and treat him the way he should be.” But West Coast and Port Adelaide are sniffing around, with Power list manager Jason Cripps saying: “The Callum situation has only just arisen in the last 24 hours. We’ll have that discussion internally and I’ll certainly be having that discussion with his manager, just to see what that may look like.” It would be a disaster for the Lions if they didn’t get anything in exchange for Ah Chee and he walked to another club for free. Picture Lachie Millard

Carlton forward Charlie Curnow was traded to the Sydney Swans in the biggest deal of the trade period. The Swans receive Curnow, pick 31, 42 and a 2027 second round pick. The Blues land pick 11, a 2026 first round pick, a 2027 first round pick and Will Hayward. The Swans are believed to have added a fifth year to Curnow’s contract taking him through to 2030. Photo: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images.

7/84Carlton forward Charlie Curnow was traded to the Sydney Swans in the biggest deal of the trade period. The Swans receive Curnow, pick 31, 42 and a 2027 second round pick. The Blues land pick 11, a 2026 first round pick, a 2027 first round pick and Will Hayward. The Swans are believed to have added a fifth year to Curnow’s contract taking him through to 2030. Photo: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images.

Charlie Curnow toured Sydney Swans HQ on Monday and was all smiles meeting with coach Dean Cox. Curnow was said to be desperate for a change of scenery, with his manager saying: “Carlton is a hard team to play for if you’re not playing well. Getting out of the bubble is pretty cool.” Photo: Phil Hillyard.

8/84Charlie Curnow toured Sydney Swans HQ on Monday and was all smiles meeting with coach Dean Cox. Curnow was said to be desperate for a change of scenery, with his manager saying: “Carlton is a hard team to play for if you’re not playing well. Getting out of the bubble is pretty cool.” Photo: Phil Hillyard.

North Melbourne captain Jy Simpkin faces an awkward predicament after the Kangaroos rejected Collingwood’s offer of a future second-round pick and shut down talks of a trade for Simpkin. North Melbourne list boss Brady Rawlings said there might be a change to the captaincy after Simpkin requested a trade in search of more midfield time. “We haven’t spoken to him about the captaincy ... Jy probably understands that going down this path, there might be a change to leadership,” Rawlings said. “I think he understands that. I’m not speaking for our players, but that’s probably going to look unlikely. Jy’s a ripper, a ripping person ... he’ll hopefully play a really important role for us next season.” Picture: Michael Klein.

9/84North Melbourne captain Jy Simpkin faces an awkward predicament after the Kangaroos rejected Collingwood’s offer of a future second-round pick and shut down talks of a trade for Simpkin. North Melbourne list boss Brady Rawlings said there might be a change to the captaincy after Simpkin requested a trade in search of more midfield time. “We haven’t spoken to him about the captaincy ... Jy probably understands that going down this path, there might be a change to leadership,” Rawlings said. “I think he understands that. I’m not speaking for our players, but that’s probably going to look unlikely. Jy’s a ripper, a ripping person ... he’ll hopefully play a really important role for us next season.” Picture: Michael Klein.

Western Bulldogs defender Buku Khamis is staying put after a deal with Carlton wasn’t done at the trade deadline. Khamis had been set for more opportunity and a pay rise at Carlton, but the Blues were so focused on getting the Charlie Curnow deal done that they didn’t have the picks to facilitate a trade for Khamis. Photo: Michael Klein

10/84Western Bulldogs defender Buku Khamis is staying put after a deal with Carlton wasn’t done at the trade deadline. Khamis had been set for more opportunity and a pay rise at Carlton, but the Blues were so focused on getting the Charlie Curnow deal done that they didn’t have the picks to facilitate a trade for Khamis. Photo: Michael Klein

Defender Changkuoth Jiath is leaving Hawthorn and joining Melbourne in exchange for pick 42 and a 2026 fourth-round pick. Jiath played 20 games this season and started as substitute in all three finals. Picture: Michael Klein

11/84Defender Changkuoth Jiath is leaving Hawthorn and joining Melbourne in exchange for pick 42 and a 2026 fourth-round pick. Jiath played 20 games this season and started as substitute in all three finals. Picture: Michael Klein

Former No. 1 draft pick Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is leaving the Western Bulldogs, joining the Gold Coast Suns in exchange for pick 74. Ugle-Hagan didn’t play an AFL game in 2025 as he battled personal issues, and he’s set to take a pay cut as the Suns hand him a career lifeline. “Though it didn’t end the way I would have liked, I have nothing but gratitude and respect for the Doggies,” he wrote on Instagram. “My time at the Kennel has come with its share of lows - there’s no denying that - but the memories and friendships I’ve made will stay with me for life. Part of me wishes things had ended differently, but I leave proud to have worn the red, white and blue.” Picture: Michael Klein

12/84Former No. 1 draft pick Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is leaving the Western Bulldogs, joining the Gold Coast Suns in exchange for pick 74. Ugle-Hagan didn’t play an AFL game in 2025 as he battled personal issues, and he’s set to take a pay cut as the Suns hand him a career lifeline. “Though it didn’t end the way I would have liked, I have nothing but gratitude and respect for the Doggies,” he wrote on Instagram. “My time at the Kennel has come with its share of lows - there’s no denying that - but the memories and friendships I’ve made will stay with me for life. Part of me wishes things had ended differently, but I leave proud to have worn the red, white and blue.” Picture: Michael Klein

Four-time All Australian and 2021 Norm Smith Medallist Christian Petracca has joined the Gold Coast Suns in exchange for picks 7, 8, and 37 that are heading to the Demons. It’s a big haul for Petracca, but the Suns now have a midfield boasting Matt Rowell, Noah Anderson, Petracca and Touk Miller. Photo: Morgan Hancock/Getty Images.

13/84Four-time All Australian and 2021 Norm Smith Medallist Christian Petracca has joined the Gold Coast Suns in exchange for picks 7, 8, and 37 that are heading to the Demons. It’s a big haul for Petracca, but the Suns now have a midfield boasting Matt Rowell, Noah Anderson, Petracca and Touk Miller. Photo: Morgan Hancock/Getty Images.

Highly rated defender Connor Budarick is leaving the Gold Coast Suns and joining the Western Bulldogs. The Dogs get Budarick and pick 70, and the Suns get pick 37. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

14/84Highly rated defender Connor Budarick is leaving the Gold Coast Suns and joining the Western Bulldogs. The Dogs get Budarick and pick 70, and the Suns get pick 37. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Midfielder Brayden Fiorini is joining Essendon from the Gold Coast Suns, where he had struggled to crack into the senior team for several years. The Suns receive Essendon’s 2026 third-round pick. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

15/84Midfielder Brayden Fiorini is joining Essendon from the Gold Coast Suns, where he had struggled to crack into the senior team for several years. The Suns receive Essendon’s 2026 third-round pick. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Rowan Marshall is staying at St Kilda after the Saints rejected multiple offers from Geelong for the highly rated ruckman. Marshall is contracted until 2027 but wanted to leave St Kilda after they signed Tom De Koning from Carlton on a massive deal. It means Marshall returns to the Saints and will likely play plenty of time up forward. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

16/84Rowan Marshall is staying at St Kilda after the Saints rejected multiple offers from Geelong for the highly rated ruckman. Marshall is contracted until 2027 but wanted to leave St Kilda after they signed Tom De Koning from Carlton on a massive deal. It means Marshall returns to the Saints and will likely play plenty of time up forward. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

St Kilda captain Jack Steele has gone to the Melbourne Demons in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick. He stepped down as captain after being told to explore his options at his exit meeting. Steele has been a very reliable player for St Kilda but has moved on after being told he doesn’t fit into the club’s plans going forward. Tom Morris said on Nine’s Footy Furnace: “Let’s call it as it is... they (Demons) have moved Clayton Oliver because they were unsure about his character off the field & they’ve brought in Steele who’s an exemplary character. It’s the most underrated story of the trade period that St Kilda’s moved on its captain.” (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

17/84St Kilda captain Jack Steele has gone to the Melbourne Demons in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick. He stepped down as captain after being told to explore his options at his exit meeting. Steele has been a very reliable player for St Kilda but has moved on after being told he doesn’t fit into the club’s plans going forward. Tom Morris said on Nine’s Footy Furnace: “Let’s call it as it is... they (Demons) have moved Clayton Oliver because they were unsure about his character off the field & they’ve brought in Steele who’s an exemplary character. It’s the most underrated story of the trade period that St Kilda’s moved on its captain.” (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

With Jack Steele moving on, it appears certain that gun defender Callum Wilkie will become St Kilda’s captain. (Photo by James Wiltshire/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

18/84With Jack Steele moving on, it appears certain that gun defender Callum Wilkie will become St Kilda’s captain. (Photo by James Wiltshire/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Sydney’s Will Hayward is heading to Carlton has part of the Charlie Curnow trade. Constantly mentioned as one of the most underrated players in the AFL, Hayward was contracted with Sydney until 2029 but is now a very handy pick-up for Carlton as a player who can kick 40 goals in a season. Hayward is overseas travelling and learned the news of his trade while in South America. Photo: Brett Costello.

19/84Sydney’s Will Hayward is heading to Carlton has part of the Charlie Curnow trade. Constantly mentioned as one of the most underrated players in the AFL, Hayward was contracted with Sydney until 2029 but is now a very handy pick-up for Carlton as a player who can kick 40 goals in a season. Hayward is overseas travelling and learned the news of his trade while in South America. Photo: Brett Costello.

Ollie Florent is also leaving the Swans for Carlton in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick. That trade was done separate to the Curnow deal and was done partly to get some money off Sydney’s books. The Swan had been set on remaining at the club, despite being dropped to the VFL under coach Dean Cox, ending up playing 16 senior games this year. Photo by Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/via Getty Images.

20/84Ollie Florent is also leaving the Swans for Carlton in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick. That trade was done separate to the Curnow deal and was done partly to get some money off Sydney’s books. The Swan had been set on remaining at the club, despite being dropped to the VFL under coach Dean Cox, ending up playing 16 senior games this year. Photo by Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/via Getty Images.

Fremantle have traded Will Brodie to Port Adelaide in exchange for pick 103, which falls in the sixth and final round of the draft. It’s extremely rare for a three-digit draft pick in the hundreds to be traded and a surprising move given the Dockers could have delisted Brodie and he could have been picked up by the Power as a delisted free agent, but it would have had salary implications to delist a contracted player. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

21/84Fremantle have traded Will Brodie to Port Adelaide in exchange for pick 103, which falls in the sixth and final round of the draft. It’s extremely rare for a three-digit draft pick in the hundreds to be traded and a surprising move given the Dockers could have delisted Brodie and he could have been picked up by the Power as a delisted free agent, but it would have had salary implications to delist a contracted player. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Collingwood’s team hasn’t changed much despite considering trading Jordan De Goey (left). The Magpies couldn’t get any genuine suitors for De Goey, but will be one of several teams chasing Zak Butters at the end of next year. Photo by Michael Klein.

22/84Collingwood’s team hasn’t changed much despite considering trading Jordan De Goey (left). The Magpies couldn’t get any genuine suitors for De Goey, but will be one of several teams chasing Zak Butters at the end of next year. Photo by Michael Klein.

GWS Giants defender Leek Aleer has re-signed on a two-year deal. You’ve got to feel for the youngster, who was promised a lucrative longterm deal only for the Saints to pull out during the trade period. Trading for Jack Silvagni, Tom De Koning, Sam Flanders and Liam Ryan has left the Saints with few assets to work with. GWS football boss Jason McCartney said last week: “Leek is absolutely shattered.” (Photo by Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

23/84GWS Giants defender Leek Aleer has re-signed on a two-year deal. You’ve got to feel for the youngster, who was promised a lucrative longterm deal only for the Saints to pull out during the trade period. Trading for Jack Silvagni, Tom De Koning, Sam Flanders and Liam Ryan has left the Saints with few assets to work with. GWS football boss Jason McCartney said last week: “Leek is absolutely shattered.” (Photo by Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Gold Coast’s Ben Ainsworth is heading to Carlton in a trade. The 27-year-old is contracted with the Suns for three more years but wants to return to Victoria for more opportunity, especially if Christian Petracca joins Gold Coast. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

24/84Gold Coast’s Ben Ainsworth is heading to Carlton in a trade. The 27-year-old is contracted with the Suns for three more years but wants to return to Victoria for more opportunity, especially if Christian Petracca joins Gold Coast. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

Collingwood forward Brody Mihocek is leaving the Magpies, joining the Melbourne Demons on a two-year deal as an unrestricted free agent. The deal has been confirmed, with the Demons giving up pick 61 and their third-round pick next year for Mihocek and pick 71. Mihocek spent eight seasons at the Pies and played in their 2023 premiership side. The Pies re-signed Jamie Elliott but Mihoceck had been Collingwood’s main key forward for several years. He was a five-time leading goalkicker at Collingwood. James Hird told AFL Trade Radio he sees Collingwood as a “bottom of the eight list unless they get more talent in”. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

25/84Collingwood forward Brody Mihocek is leaving the Magpies, joining the Melbourne Demons on a two-year deal as an unrestricted free agent. The deal has been confirmed, with the Demons giving up pick 61 and their third-round pick next year for Mihocek and pick 71. Mihocek spent eight seasons at the Pies and played in their 2023 premiership side. The Pies re-signed Jamie Elliott but Mihoceck had been Collingwood’s main key forward for several years. He was a five-time leading goalkicker at Collingwood. James Hird told AFL Trade Radio he sees Collingwood as a “bottom of the eight list unless they get more talent in”. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

As part of the same deal, Carlton small forward Corey Durdin is heading to Port Adelaide, returning home to South Australia despite having a year left on his deal. The three-way trade sees Port get Durdin and a future second-round pick, Gold Coast get pick 29 from Port Adelaide, Carlton get Ben Ainsworth and pick 67. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

26/84As part of the same deal, Carlton small forward Corey Durdin is heading to Port Adelaide, returning home to South Australia despite having a year left on his deal. The three-way trade sees Port get Durdin and a future second-round pick, Gold Coast get pick 29 from Port Adelaide, Carlton get Ben Ainsworth and pick 67. (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Clayton Oliver (right) has joined the GWS Giants after being told by the Melbourne Demons his services were no longer required. Oliver has been a gun midfielder in previous seasons and will be hoping a new club can help him rediscover his best footy in Sydney. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

27/84Clayton Oliver (right) has joined the GWS Giants after being told by the Melbourne Demons his services were no longer required. Oliver has been a gun midfielder in previous seasons and will be hoping a new club can help him rediscover his best footy in Sydney. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The 28-year-old delivered a swipe at Melbourne after speaking to Channel 7 while outside GWS’ facilities. The midfielder has been linked with a move to the Giants as well as Collingwood and when asked what he liked about the Pies he stated: “I like them better than Melbourne, that’s for sure”.

28/84The 28-year-old delivered a swipe at Melbourne after speaking to Channel 7 while outside GWS’ facilities. The midfielder has been linked with a move to the Giants as well as Collingwood and when asked what he liked about the Pies he stated: “I like them better than Melbourne, that’s for sure”.

29/84Clayton Oliver is heading to the GWS Giants. Photo: GWS

30/84Richmond’s Tylar Young is heading to West Coast in exchange for pick 38. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Campbell Chesser (left) is leaving the West Coast Eagles, joining Carlton in exchange for pick 41. The 22-year-old former No. 14 draft pick has struggled to hit top form in the start of his AFL career. Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

31/84Campbell Chesser (left) is leaving the West Coast Eagles, joining Carlton in exchange for pick 41. The 22-year-old former No. 14 draft pick has struggled to hit top form in the start of his AFL career. Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Gold Coast’s Sam Flanders is joining St Kilda in exchange for pick 7 in the upcoming AFL Draft. Flanders, 24, is reportedly joining the Saints on a five-year deal worth $900,000 per season. The Suns could use that draft pick to get Christian Petracca. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

32/84Gold Coast’s Sam Flanders is joining St Kilda in exchange for pick 7 in the upcoming AFL Draft. Flanders, 24, is reportedly joining the Saints on a five-year deal worth $900,000 per season. The Suns could use that draft pick to get Christian Petracca. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

Brandon Starcevich is leaving Brisbane and joining West Coast on a longterm deal. Brisbane gets picks 16, 22, 44 and 50, giving up Starcevich plus picks 19, 46 an 52. Fremantle gets picks 19, 23 and 46, giving up picks 12, 33, 44 and 50. West Coast gets Starcevich plus picks 12, 33 and 52, giving up picks 16, 22 and 23. The Eagles land Starcevich and an upgraded first-round pick without diluting the compensation they’ll receive for Oscar Allen joining Brisbane; while the Lions get two good draft picks which they’ll use to match an early bid for Academy gun Daniel Annable. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

33/84Brandon Starcevich is leaving Brisbane and joining West Coast on a longterm deal. Brisbane gets picks 16, 22, 44 and 50, giving up Starcevich plus picks 19, 46 an 52. Fremantle gets picks 19, 23 and 46, giving up picks 12, 33, 44 and 50. West Coast gets Starcevich plus picks 12, 33 and 52, giving up picks 16, 22 and 23. The Eagles land Starcevich and an upgraded first-round pick without diluting the compensation they’ll receive for Oscar Allen joining Brisbane; while the Lions get two good draft picks which they’ll use to match an early bid for Academy gun Daniel Annable. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The paperwork for Oscar Allen’s move to Brisbane as a free agent has been lodged, with the Eagles to get pick 2 as compensation. The Eagles will likely have the top two picks in the AFL Draft. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

34/84The paperwork for Oscar Allen’s move to Brisbane as a free agent has been lodged, with the Eagles to get pick 2 as compensation. The Eagles will likely have the top two picks in the AFL Draft. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

35/84Oscar Allen has officially joined the Brisbane Lions.

36/84Melbourne youngster Judd McVee, 23, has been traded to the Fremantle Dockers in exchange for pick 23. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

St Kilda’s re-signing Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera on a two-year deal worth $2 million per season has allowed the Saints to “go fishing”, said list boss Graeme Allan. St Kilda are set to land as many as five recruits on big money deals this off-season. “It’s time we fill up the holes we’ve got. We wouldn’t have done it without ‘Nas’ signing. With him signing, we’ve been able to go fishing,” Allan said. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

37/84St Kilda’s re-signing Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera on a two-year deal worth $2 million per season has allowed the Saints to “go fishing”, said list boss Graeme Allan. St Kilda are set to land as many as five recruits on big money deals this off-season. “It’s time we fill up the holes we’ve got. We wouldn’t have done it without ‘Nas’ signing. With him signing, we’ve been able to go fishing,” Allan said. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

The Gold Coast Suns have the draft pick assets to secure a trade with the Demons. The Suns have picks 6, 13 and 16 to play with. The Demons have remained firm that any offer must blow them away, so Gold Coast may need to part with Sam Flanders or talented youngster Bailey Humphrey (pictured) to get a deal done to get Petracca. Suns boss Craig Cameron said: “It doesn’t matter how many clubs he meets with, we won’t be trading him.” (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

38/84The Gold Coast Suns have the draft pick assets to secure a trade with the Demons. The Suns have picks 6, 13 and 16 to play with. The Demons have remained firm that any offer must blow them away, so Gold Coast may need to part with Sam Flanders or talented youngster Bailey Humphrey (pictured) to get a deal done to get Petracca. Suns boss Craig Cameron said: “It doesn’t matter how many clubs he meets with, we won’t be trading him.” (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

39/84Hawthorn midfielder James Worpel has joined Geelong on a four-year deal as a restricted free agent. Picture: Michael Klein

40/84James Worpel in the Geelong hoops. Photo: Instagram.

Ruckman Tom De Koning is leaving Carlton for St Kilda on a mega eight-year deal worth around $1.7 million per season and $13.6 million in total. It’s an enormous deal for the 26-year-old who has had good patches of form but hasn’t won a best-and-fairest or made an All Australian team. De Koning is making the move via free agency. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

41/84Ruckman Tom De Koning is leaving Carlton for St Kilda on a mega eight-year deal worth around $1.7 million per season and $13.6 million in total. It’s an enormous deal for the 26-year-old who has had good patches of form but hasn’t won a best-and-fairest or made an All Australian team. De Koning is making the move via free agency. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

42/84Jack Silvagni has officially joined St Kilda as a free agent, with Carlton receiving pick 19 as compensation. Picture: Michael Klein

43/84Former Carlton players Tom De Koning and Jack Silvagni in St Kilda colours. Photo: Instagram.

Look away Essendon fans. Ruckman Sam Draper has gone to Brisbane to bolster the Lions’ ruck stocks following Oscar McInerney’s retirement. The 26-year-old ruptured his Achilles earlier this season and is the latest quality player to walk out on the Bombers, who get pick as compensation for the free agency move. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

44/84Look away Essendon fans. Ruckman Sam Draper has gone to Brisbane to bolster the Lions’ ruck stocks following Oscar McInerney’s retirement. The 26-year-old ruptured his Achilles earlier this season and is the latest quality player to walk out on the Bombers, who get pick as compensation for the free agency move. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

Hawthorn youngster Jai Serong, the younger brother of Fremantle’s Caleb Serong, is joining the Sydney Swans. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

45/84Hawthorn youngster Jai Serong, the younger brother of Fremantle’s Caleb Serong, is joining the Sydney Swans. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

46/84Gold Coast Suns youngster Malcolm Rosas joining the Sydney Swans. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

Midfielder Jacob Wehr, who played 14 games for the Giants this season, has joined Port Adelaide as an unrestricted free agent. (Photo by Phil Hillyard)

47/84Midfielder Jacob Wehr, who played 14 games for the Giants this season, has joined Port Adelaide as an unrestricted free agent. (Photo by Phil Hillyard)

Amid strong links with the Suns, Jamie Elliott has made a call on his future, signing a two-year extension with Collingwood. The cult hero reportedly had his contract offer bumped up as he resisted a richer three-year Gold Coast deal. “Collingwood has been my home for the past 14 years and I can’t wait to continue running out in front of the Magpie Army,” Elliott said. He also called his 200th game this year “something I’ll never forget”. Photo by James Wiltshire/AFL Photos via Getty. Images)

48/84Amid strong links with the Suns, Jamie Elliott has made a call on his future, signing a two-year extension with Collingwood. The cult hero reportedly had his contract offer bumped up as he resisted a richer three-year Gold Coast deal. “Collingwood has been my home for the past 14 years and I can’t wait to continue running out in front of the Magpie Army,” Elliott said. He also called his 200th game this year “something I’ll never forget”. Photo by James Wiltshire/AFL Photos via Getty. Images)

Fellow Collingwood veteran Tom Mitchell has also been encouraged to explore other opportunities at other AFL clubs as the Magpies look to balance their ageing list. Mitchell was injured for much of 2025 and returned late in the season. Cox and Mitchell both played in Collingwood’s 2023 premiership win. Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

49/84Fellow Collingwood veteran Tom Mitchell has also been encouraged to explore other opportunities at other AFL clubs as the Magpies look to balance their ageing list. Mitchell was injured for much of 2025 and returned late in the season. Cox and Mitchell both played in Collingwood’s 2023 premiership win. Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Essendon defender Jayden Laverde has joined the GWS Giants. Laverde, 29, has been with the Bombers with 2014 but is out of contract. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

50/84Essendon defender Jayden Laverde has joined the GWS Giants. Laverde, 29, has been with the Bombers with 2014 but is out of contract. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The future of veteran Demons defender Steven May is up in the air after he was told to explore his options. Nine’s Tom Morris reported: “The Demons are keen to play youth in his position and can’t guarantee May senior games in 2026, which is the last year of his contract.”. The Western Bulldogs are in desperate need of a key defender but signed Connor Budarick instead. (Photo by Josh Chadwick/Getty Images)

51/84The future of veteran Demons defender Steven May is up in the air after he was told to explore his options. Nine’s Tom Morris reported: “The Demons are keen to play youth in his position and can’t guarantee May senior games in 2026, which is the last year of his contract.”. The Western Bulldogs are in desperate need of a key defender but signed Connor Budarick instead. (Photo by Josh Chadwick/Getty Images)

Jordan Ridley has backtracked on a plan to leave the Bombers after meeting with Brisbane Lions officials recently. The defender put pen to paper on a long-term deal last year, tying him to the club until the end of the 2029 season. Finally some rare good news for Bombers fans. Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

52/84Jordan Ridley has backtracked on a plan to leave the Bombers after meeting with Brisbane Lions officials recently. The defender put pen to paper on a long-term deal last year, tying him to the club until the end of the 2029 season. Finally some rare good news for Bombers fans. Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

Josh Rachele has been floated as a potential circuit breaker in the trade negotiations between the Demons and Crows as they haggle over Christian Petracca. However, the Crows have told their rivals to back off. “Adelaide forward Josh Rachele will absolutely not be part of any deal involving Demons superstar Christian Petracca and a potential move to the Crows,” Seven’s Theo Doropoulos tweeted. “The 22-year old is contracted until 2029 and is considered untouchable.” Photo by Mark Brake/Getty Images)

53/84Josh Rachele has been floated as a potential circuit breaker in the trade negotiations between the Demons and Crows as they haggle over Christian Petracca. However, the Crows have told their rivals to back off. “Adelaide forward Josh Rachele will absolutely not be part of any deal involving Demons superstar Christian Petracca and a potential move to the Crows,” Seven’s Theo Doropoulos tweeted. “The 22-year old is contracted until 2029 and is considered untouchable.” Photo by Mark Brake/Getty Images)

Collingwood Grand Final hero Oleg Markov is one of four players the club has delisted following its preliminary final loss to Brisbane. Fin Macrae, the younger brother of St Kilda’s Jack, has also been axed after the 2020 first-round pick failed to break into the Magpies’ midfield. Ash Johnson has departed after a leg injury limited his opportunities this year. Charlie Dean, a former VFL star who joined the Magpies through the 2022 rookie draft, has also been delisted after just 12 games at the top level. If Elliott, Cox, Mitchell and Brody Mihocek leave, the Magpies will have lost a host of premiership players. Photo: Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

54/84Collingwood Grand Final hero Oleg Markov is one of four players the club has delisted following its preliminary final loss to Brisbane. Fin Macrae, the younger brother of St Kilda’s Jack, has also been axed after the 2020 first-round pick failed to break into the Magpies’ midfield. Ash Johnson has departed after a leg injury limited his opportunities this year. Charlie Dean, a former VFL star who joined the Magpies through the 2022 rookie draft, has also been delisted after just 12 games at the top level. If Elliott, Cox, Mitchell and Brody Mihocek leave, the Magpies will have lost a host of premiership players. Photo: Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

55/84Dylan Shiel headlines a list of more than 50 players that have been delisted in recent weeks. Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images.

Lachlan Murphy, who was told this week he would not be offered a contract extension by the Crows, is one of 48 players to be delisted. Photo by Jason McCawley via Getty Images.

56/84Lachlan Murphy, who was told this week he would not be offered a contract extension by the Crows, is one of 48 players to be delisted. Photo by Jason McCawley via Getty Images.

Long-serving Gold Coast forward Alex Sexton who sits third on the club’s all-time goalkickers list, was among a trio of players cut by the Queensland club on Friday. Picture: Michael Klein.

57/84Long-serving Gold Coast forward Alex Sexton who sits third on the club’s all-time goalkickers list, was among a trio of players cut by the Queensland club on Friday. Picture: Michael Klein.

Sexton’s departure brings one of the longest tenures in the club’s history to a close, with the 31-year-old placed behind only Suns games record holder David Swallow as the longest-serving Sun. Sexton played the majority of his 14-year journey at the club in the forward line, kicking 164 goals and leading the Suns goalkicking in both 2018 and 2019. Sexton currently sits third on the Suns all-time goalkicking list, fourth for most games played and in 2021 became the fourth player to be inducted as a life member of the Gold Coast SUNS. Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images.

58/84Sexton’s departure brings one of the longest tenures in the club’s history to a close, with the 31-year-old placed behind only Suns games record holder David Swallow as the longest-serving Sun. Sexton played the majority of his 14-year journey at the club in the forward line, kicking 164 goals and leading the Suns goalkicking in both 2018 and 2019. Sexton currently sits third on the Suns all-time goalkicking list, fourth for most games played and in 2021 became the fourth player to be inducted as a life member of the Gold Coast SUNS. Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images.

Lloyd Johnston (pictured) and Tom Berry have also been told they will not be offered contracts for 2026. Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

59/84Lloyd Johnston (pictured) and Tom Berry have also been told they will not be offered contracts for 2026. Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

60/84Robbie Fox (centre) is one of many players linked to the new Tasmanian team, NewsWire reports. Photo: Phil Hillyard.

Melbourne axed six players including Jack Billings in the hours before the club’s best and fairest count. Former No. 3 pick Billings and defender Marty Hore headlined the list of moves. Father-son Kynan Brown, former Brisbane tall Tom Fullarton and untried pair Oliver Sestan and Will Verrall have also been delisted. Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images.

61/84Melbourne axed six players including Jack Billings in the hours before the club’s best and fairest count. Former No. 3 pick Billings and defender Marty Hore headlined the list of moves. Father-son Kynan Brown, former Brisbane tall Tom Fullarton and untried pair Oliver Sestan and Will Verrall have also been delisted. Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images.

Beau McCreery is one of Collingwood’s most important role players and says he wants to re-sign despite interest from rival clubs. The speedster is contracted until 2027 but could get a pay rise elsewhere.(Photo by James Elsby/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

62/84Beau McCreery is one of Collingwood’s most important role players and says he wants to re-sign despite interest from rival clubs. The speedster is contracted until 2027 but could get a pay rise elsewhere.(Photo by James Elsby/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

63/84The Giants are reportedly interested in utility Aaron Francis, who has been delisted by the Sydney Swans. Photo: Brett Costello.

Highly touted Carlton youngster Jaxon Binns has emerged as a trade target for rival clubs. The 20-year-old has only played eight games in three seasons, struggling to crack into Michael Voss’ midfield rotation (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

64/84Highly touted Carlton youngster Jaxon Binns has emerged as a trade target for rival clubs. The 20-year-old has only played eight games in three seasons, struggling to crack into Michael Voss’ midfield rotation (Photo by Daniel Carson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Injured Hawthorn defender Sam Frost is another name who has been linked with GWS. He is out of contract at the end of this season and could be picked up in the pre-season draft. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

65/84Injured Hawthorn defender Sam Frost is another name who has been linked with GWS. He is out of contract at the end of this season and could be picked up in the pre-season draft. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

66/84Zac Bailey is set to re-sign at the Brisbane Lions after reportedly being targeted by Essendon. (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images)

Charlie Spargo is leaving the Melbourne Demons, joining North Melbourne as a free agent. The Dees receive pick 41 as compensation. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

67/84Charlie Spargo is leaving the Melbourne Demons, joining North Melbourne as a free agent. The Dees receive pick 41 as compensation. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

West Coast livewire forward Liam Ryan is going to St Kilda. Ryan is contracted for 2026 but has joined the Saints on a four-year deal. (Photo by Graham Denholm/Getty Images)

68/84West Coast livewire forward Liam Ryan is going to St Kilda. Ryan is contracted for 2026 but has joined the Saints on a four-year deal. (Photo by Graham Denholm/Getty Images)

Harley Reid closed the book on his rollercoaster contract saga last month when the Eagles announced he has signed a two-year-extension through to the end of the 2028 season. It had been reported multiple Victorian clubs were ready to make offers worth more than $20 million. Photo by Janelle St Pierre/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

69/84Harley Reid closed the book on his rollercoaster contract saga last month when the Eagles announced he has signed a two-year-extension through to the end of the 2028 season. It had been reported multiple Victorian clubs were ready to make offers worth more than $20 million. Photo by Janelle St Pierre/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Ken Hinkley’s time as Port Adelaide coach is over, but there’s talk he has received an offer from Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell to join the Hawks in some capacity next season. Hinkley will be sought after in 2026 - the Demons could use him as an assistant coach or an advisor to their new coach following Simon Goodwin’s sacking. (Photo by Sarah Reed/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

70/84Ken Hinkley’s time as Port Adelaide coach is over, but there’s talk he has received an offer from Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell to join the Hawks in some capacity next season. Hinkley will be sought after in 2026 - the Demons could use him as an assistant coach or an advisor to their new coach following Simon Goodwin’s sacking. (Photo by Sarah Reed/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Dayne Zorko of the Lions is chaired off for his 300th AFL match. The five-time best-and-fairest and 2024 premiership player is playing on in 2026 after signing a one-year extension. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

71/84Dayne Zorko of the Lions is chaired off for his 300th AFL match. The five-time best-and-fairest and 2024 premiership player is playing on in 2026 after signing a one-year extension. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

Collingwood have re-signed ruckman Darcy Cameron on a three-year extension, keeping him at the Pies until the end of 2029. Cameron had been linked to WA but has been rewarded after becoming one of the AFL’s premier ruckmen. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

72/84Collingwood have re-signed ruckman Darcy Cameron on a three-year extension, keeping him at the Pies until the end of 2029. Cameron had been linked to WA but has been rewarded after becoming one of the AFL’s premier ruckmen. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Scott Pendlebury has confirmed he is going around again in 2026 for his 21st AFL season. The 37-year-old is part of the AFL’s exclusive 400-game club and needs 12 more games to break Brent Harvey’s all-time games record of 432 matches next year. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos/Getty Images)

73/84Scott Pendlebury has confirmed he is going around again in 2026 for his 21st AFL season. The 37-year-old is part of the AFL’s exclusive 400-game club and needs 12 more games to break Brent Harvey’s all-time games record of 432 matches next year. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos/Getty Images)

Richmond forward Tom Lynch has signed a one-year extension for 2026. On his previous deal, Lynch had long been one of the AFL’s highest paid players on around $1.5 million a season. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

74/84Richmond forward Tom Lynch has signed a one-year extension for 2026. On his previous deal, Lynch had long been one of the AFL’s highest paid players on around $1.5 million a season. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

It’s been a tough year for the Demons but one saving grace is Kysaiah Pickett’s decision to sign a bumper deal that keeps him at Melbourne until the end of 2034. The contract is reportedly worth $12 million over nine years. Pickett, a 2021 premiership player, is on track to be the first player since Steve Johnson in 2011 to average 20 disposals and two goals per game over a single season. (Photo by Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

75/84It’s been a tough year for the Demons but one saving grace is Kysaiah Pickett’s decision to sign a bumper deal that keeps him at Melbourne until the end of 2034. The contract is reportedly worth $12 million over nine years. Pickett, a 2021 premiership player, is on track to be the first player since Steve Johnson in 2011 to average 20 disposals and two goals per game over a single season. (Photo by Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Matt Rowell had been heavily linked to Geelong but the former No. 1 pick re-signed with the Gold Coast Suns for two years, taking him through to free agency. A tackling machine, Rowell leads the AFL in clearances. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

76/84Matt Rowell had been heavily linked to Geelong but the former No. 1 pick re-signed with the Gold Coast Suns for two years, taking him through to free agency. A tackling machine, Rowell leads the AFL in clearances. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Sydney Swans fans breathed a sigh of relief when Chad Warner announced he was staying in the Harbour City until at least the end of 2027. Warner, who hails from Western Australia, will make another call on his future when he hits free agency. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

77/84Sydney Swans fans breathed a sigh of relief when Chad Warner announced he was staying in the Harbour City until at least the end of 2027. Warner, who hails from Western Australia, will make another call on his future when he hits free agency. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

Western Bulldogs skipper Marcus Bontempelli will be a Dog for life after penning a four-year extension until the end of 2029. The Bont hasn’t turned 30 yet and he’s already one of the most decorated Bulldogs players ever, (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

78/84Western Bulldogs skipper Marcus Bontempelli will be a Dog for life after penning a four-year extension until the end of 2029. The Bont hasn’t turned 30 yet and he’s already one of the most decorated Bulldogs players ever, (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)

Finn Callaghan signed a four-year, $4 million deal on the eve of the season, turning down a bigger offer from St Kilda. Callaghan has been the GWS Giants’ best player in 2025 and is another gun midfielder who will be out of contract when he hits free agency. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

79/84Finn Callaghan signed a four-year, $4 million deal on the eve of the season, turning down a bigger offer from St Kilda. Callaghan has been the GWS Giants’ best player in 2025 and is another gun midfielder who will be out of contract when he hits free agency. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

2023 Norm Smith Medallist Bobby Hill signed an upgraded deal that keeps the livewire forward at Collingwood until 2030. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

80/842023 Norm Smith Medallist Bobby Hill signed an upgraded deal that keeps the livewire forward at Collingwood until 2030. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Rising Port Adelaide star Miles Bergman re-signed until the end of 2027 in a deal many Power fans didn’t see coming. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

81/84Rising Port Adelaide star Miles Bergman re-signed until the end of 2027 in a deal many Power fans didn’t see coming. (Photo by Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Port Adelaide star Zak Butters is out of contract at the end of 2026 and has been mentioned in rumours about a move to Victorian clubs like Geelong and the Western Bulldogs. The Power have reportedly offered Butters a two-year deal that would take him through to free agency, with a player option for Butters to extend for a further six years. (Photo by Sarah Reed/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

82/84Port Adelaide star Zak Butters is out of contract at the end of 2026 and has been mentioned in rumours about a move to Victorian clubs like Geelong and the Western Bulldogs. The Power have reportedly offered Butters a two-year deal that would take him through to free agency, with a player option for Butters to extend for a further six years. (Photo by Sarah Reed/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Carlton veteran Sam Docherty announced his retirement after a stellar career. The All Australian defender battled testicular cancer and ACL injuries throughout his time at the Blues. Picture: Michael Klein

83/84Carlton veteran Sam Docherty announced his retirement after a stellar career. The All Australian defender battled testicular cancer and ACL injuries throughout his time at the Blues. Picture: Michael Klein

84/84Adelaide ruckman Reilly O’Brien has re-signed with the Crows until the end of 2028. Photo: Getty.

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