With their earliest selection not arriving until the third round, the Collingwood Magpies are gearing up to make strategic choices with a trio of late picks in the upcoming AFL Draft. The club’s aggressive trade strategy has left them without any first-round picks in both the 2024 and 2025 drafts, placing them in a unique position to scout talent further down the order. Despite their limited draft capital, the Magpies hope the depth of this year’s draft pool will yield some promising young talent.
Collingwood holds picks 52, 55, and 58, which gives them three selections in close succession in the third round. While the team may explore trading up, it’s unlikely they will re-enter the early rounds without a substantial trade opportunity. With specific list needs in mind, Collingwood will focus on addressing key areas to fortify their roster, particularly in defense, midfield, and forward depth. The club hopes that some favorable academy or father-son bids will allow their selections to move up the order.
Key Areas for Improvement
One of the club’s primary objectives is to add height to their defensive line. Having parted ways with key players like Nathan Murphy and Joshua Eyre, the Magpies are in need of a reliable tall defender to provide depth and secure their backline. Additionally, with seasoned midfielders like Scott Pendlebury and Steele Sidebottom nearing the twilight of their careers, Collingwood will be keen on strengthening their midfield pipeline to ensure a smooth transition to the next generation.
In their search for forward options, the Magpies have already signed Saint Tim Membrey, but they still require young, tall forwards to develop for the future. Questions remain around existing forwards like Ash Johnson and Reef McInnes, and with Nathan Kreuger also cut from the team, this area will be essential for sustaining their attacking strength.
Potential Draft Targets
Collingwood has a few prospects on their radar who could be available when their picks come around. South Australian Charlie Nicholls is an exciting option; a versatile player known for his forward capabilities, Nicholls kicked 22 goals over 11 games for Central District’s U18s. At 197 cm, he offers a strong aerial presence and has shown talent in marking contests, both forward and behind the ball. Another name in the mix is Thomas Sims from the Northern Knights, another tall forward with potential.
Clancy Dennis, a 195 cm defender, is another prospect Collingwood may consider. Named at center half-back in the U18 All-Australian team, Dennis has proven himself as a reliable defensive anchor with strong contested and intercept marking abilities. He led his Western Australian team in 2024, displaying impressive resilience and skill both in lockdown and intercept roles, which could fill Collingwood’s need for defensive height and strength.
Lastly, Nathaniel Sulzberger from Tasmania could provide the Magpies with versatility. A speedy and hard-running midfielder-forward, Sulzberger showcased his adaptability this year, impressing with his consistent impact and diverse role-play. Averaging nearly a goal per game for the Sandringham Dragons, he could bring an immediate boost to Collingwood’s midfield depth, alongside his scoring ability.