With the new season fast approaching, all attention will be on Collingwood to see if their off-season changes can deliver results on the field.
Collingwood Football Club is making waves ahead of the 2025 AFL season,
securing several high-profile recruits in a bold off-season shake-up designed to
bolster their premiership chances. With a championship-winning mentality at
the heart of their plans, the Magpies are looking to build on their strong
performances from previous seasons and position themselves as serious
contenders for the 2025 Premiership.
The off-season has been a whirlwind for the Pies, who have made significant
moves in the player market to strengthen key areas of their squad. Their
recruitment drive has been nothing short of ambitious, with a series of high-
impact signings from both established AFL stars and promising up-and-
coming talent. Collingwood is hoping that these new additions will give them
the edge in their pursuit of another flag.
The most talked-about signing this off-season has been that of star midfielder,
Jaidyn Stephenson, who returns to the club after an impressive stint at North
Melbourne. His explosive pace and dynamic ball use make him a perfect fit for
Collingwood’s fast-paced game style, and his addition is expected to provide
further depth to the team’s midfield. Stephenson’s ability to turn games on
their head with his speed and creativity will be an asset as the Pies look to
challenge the league’s best.
In addition to Stephenson, the Magpies have also secured the services of key
defender Tom Doedee, who has been a standout player at Adelaide Crows.
Doedee’s leadership and ability to shut down opposition forwards make him
an essential addition to Collingwood’s backline. His presence alongside the
likes of Darcy Moore and Nathan Murphy will create a formidable defensive
unit, one that can weather the storm against the AFL’s most potent attacking
sides.
Collingwood has also targeted young talent in the draft, bringing in some
highly rated rookies who have already begun turning heads at pre-season
training. Among them is utility player Elijah Hewett, who has been described
as one of the most exciting prospects to come out of Western Australia in
years. Hewett’s ability to play both midfield and forward gives Collingwood a
versatile option as they look to maintain their competitive edge throughout the
season. With his powerful running and goal sense, Hewett’s potential impact
on the team cannot be overstated.
The Pies’ recruitment strategy hasn’t just focused on bringing in new players;
they’ve also worked hard to retain their core group. Key figures like Brody
Mihocek, Scott Pendlebury, and Taylor Adams have all committed to long-
term deals, ensuring the club’s experienced players remain central to their
premiership aspirations. The leadership and experience these players bring
will be crucial in guiding the younger recruits and helping to establish the
culture of success that Collingwood aims to cultivate.
Collingwood’s recruitment drive comes off the back of a strong 2024 season,
where they finished near the top of the ladder and made an impressive run in
the finals. Despite the heartbreak of falling just short of a Grand Final
appearance, the Magpies remain one of the most well-placed clubs in the AFL.
Their off-season moves are a clear statement of intent – Collingwood is not
just aiming for a top-four finish but is targeting the ultimate prize: the 2025
AFL Premiership.
With their list looking stronger than ever, there’s no denying that Collingwood
will be one of the teams to watch in the upcoming season. Coach Craig McRae
has already spoken about the importance of building on last year’s success and
using the off-season recruits to add a new dimension to their game. With a
more balanced and deep squad, Collingwood will be hoping to address the few
areas that held them back in 2024, particularly their lack of a consistent
forward target and the need for more flexibility in attack.
The Magpies’ recruitment moves have sent a message to the rest of the AFL:
Collingwood is coming for the 2025 Premiership. With a mix of seasoned stars
and exciting new talent, the Pies are primed to challenge for the top spot and
make a serious push for the ultimate glory. As the new season approaches, all
eyes will be on Collingwood to see if their off-season shake-up can translate
into success on the field.
