In a major development out of the Holden Centre, the Collingwood Football Club has informed premiership ruckman Mason Cox and 2023 best and fairest Tom Mitchell that their futures at the club are uncertain beyond the 2025 AFL season. Both veterans have reportedly been told to “explore their options” for the 2026 season, signalling a potential shift in Collingwood’s list management strategy.
A Changing of the Guard?
Sources close to the club say that the decision reflects the Magpies’ intention to retool their midfield and ruck stocks as they plan for the long-term future. With a raft of young talent coming through the VFL and recent draft picks pushing for senior selection, list bosses appear to be making difficult calls on experienced players who have delivered in recent years.
Mason Cox, 33, has become one of the game’s most unique figures since debuting in 2016 as a 211cm American import. Known for his towering presence and occasional game-breaking performances, including his heroics in the 2018 preliminary final, Cox played a crucial role in Collingwood’s 2023 premiership run. However, recurring injuries and reduced game time in 2024 and 2025 have led to speculation that the club may seek younger ruck-forward options moving forward.
Tom Mitchell, 32, arrived at Collingwood from Hawthorn ahead of the 2023 season and made an immediate impact, bringing clearance-winning ability and composure around stoppages. He was instrumental in the Pies’ premiership-winning campaign and claimed the club’s Copeland Trophy in his first year. Despite this, his role has reportedly diminished in recent months, with coach Craig McRae favouring a more dynamic midfield rotation.
List Management Calls Loom
General Manager of Football Graham Wright has not officially commented on the matter but is believed to be overseeing a broader list review following an inconsistent 2025 campaign. With salary cap pressure and the emergence of younger players such as Finlay Macrae, Ed Allan, and a fit-again Reef McInnes, decisions around veteran players were always going to be pivotal.
“It’s part of the cycle,” one club insider noted. “They’ve been outstanding for us, but we have to look at where we’ll be in two to three years.”
What’s Next for Cox and Mitchell?
Both players are expected to draw interest from rival clubs should they decide to continue their AFL careers. Cox, with his experience and unique physical attributes, could attract attention from teams seeking depth in the ruck or a key forward target. Meanwhile, Mitchell’s ability to find the ball and distribute cleanly in congestion remains highly valued across the league.
Neither player has publicly commented on the news, but sources close to both camps suggest they are keeping all options open — including a potential transition into off-field roles or media, depending on how the 2025 season finishes.
A New Era Dawning?
As Collingwood continues to manage its list with an eye to sustained success, fans will no doubt reflect on the contributions of both Cox and Mitchell — players who played vital roles in one of the most successful periods in recent club history. Whether their journey in black and white ends after 2025 remains to be seen, but their impact will not be forgotten.
