These Five Elite Players Are Moving to Collingwood Just Now

The Australian Football League (AFL) is buzzing with excitement after Collingwood Football Club announced the acquisition of five prominent players for the 2024 season. The Magpies, one of the most prestigious and successful clubs in the league, have made some significant moves during the trade period, bringing in top-tier talent that could have a major impact on both their immediate and future prospects.

This bold move by Collingwood comes after a highly competitive trade window, where the club aggressively sought out some of the most sought-after players available. The result is a revamped team that is expected to strengthen their push for the AFL premiership in the upcoming season. Fans of the Pies are understandably thrilled, as these acquisitions may be just what the team needs to make a serious championship run. Here’s a closer look at the players set to join Collingwood for 2024:

1. Max King – Forward (St Kilda)

The first major addition to Collingwood’s list is Max King, a key forward coming from St Kilda. Known for his imposing presence in the air and his deadly goal-kicking accuracy, King’s move to Collingwood is a game-changer for the team’s forward line. The Magpies already boasted a strong attacking unit, but King’s arrival will elevate their forward structure to new heights. His ability to take strong marks and convert in front of goal will provide Collingwood with a reliable target in attack, making them even more potent in the scoring zone. King’s power in one-on-one contests and his high-flying capabilities are set to make him a crucial asset in Collingwood’s forward setup, and his addition will surely add an extra dimension to their attacking play.

2. Jarrod Witts – Ruck (Gold Coast Suns)

Another headline-grabbing signing for Collingwood is Jarrod Witts, the experienced ruckman from the Gold Coast Suns. Witts is widely regarded as one of the best ruckmen in the AFL, known for his ability to dominate stoppages and consistently win hitouts. His move to Collingwood is a massive coup for the club, as it significantly strengthens their midfield. Witts’ presence will provide the Pies with a reliable option in the ruck, giving them a much-needed advantage in clearances. His ability to read the play and win crucial stoppages will help players like Jordan De Goey and Jack Crisp gain first use of the ball, which could lead to greater control around the ground and in attack. Witts’ physicality and experience will also bring a new level of maturity to the Pies’ midfield, helping them compete more effectively against some of the league’s top sides.

3. Luke Jackson – Ruck/Forward (Melbourne)

Collingwood has also added the highly talented Luke Jackson from Melbourne, a young player who offers exceptional versatility. Jackson’s ability to play both in the ruck and as a forward makes him a unique asset, as he can be used in a variety of roles depending on the team’s needs. Jackson has already proven himself as one of the most promising young talents in the AFL, and his move to Collingwood is sure to add even more depth and flexibility to their squad. His athleticism, mobility, and skill around the ground allow him to impact the game in several areas, whether it’s in the air, at ground level, or around stoppages. Pairing Jackson with Witts in the ruck will give Collingwood a formidable combination, with Jackson able to rotate forward and create headaches for opposition defenders. The added dynamic of Jackson’s mobility and his ability to work in tandem with other players will provide Collingwood with tactical options that can be exploited throughout the season.

4. Tom Mitchell – Midfield (Hawthorn)

Another exciting acquisition for Collingwood is Tom Mitchell, one of the league’s premier midfielders, who arrives from Hawthorn. Mitchell is renowned for his ability to accumulate possessions and his fierce competitive nature around the ball. His ball-winning capacity is among the best in the league, and he brings a level of hardness and tenacity to the Pies’ midfield. His addition gives Collingwood an even stronger presence in the engine room, alongside players like De Goey and Crisp. Mitchell’s clearance work, his ability to win contested ball, and his experience will complement the existing midfield group, making them a more formidable unit. He will provide much-needed depth in the middle, helping the Pies compete in high-pressure situations. His ability to win contested footy and use the ball efficiently will be vital for Collingwood’s aspirations in 2024.

5. Billy Frampton – Defender (Adelaide Crows)

The final piece of the puzzle for Collingwood is Billy Frampton, who joins from Adelaide. Frampton is a key defender capable of playing on some of the competition’s most dangerous forwards. His defensive prowess and ability to read the play will make him an important addition to Collingwood’s backline, which already includes the likes of Brayden Maynard and Darcy Moore. Frampton’s strong marking ability and his capacity to lock down opposition forwards will give Collingwood added depth in their defense. His leadership and composure under pressure will help stabilize the Pies’ defensive unit, allowing them to compete against the league’s most dangerous attacking players. Frampton’s toughness and reliability will provide Collingwood with more flexibility in their defensive setup, as he can play both as a tall defender and as a swingman when needed.

The Impact of the New Additions

The additions of King, Witts, Jackson, Mitchell, and Frampton give Collingwood a well-rounded, formidable team across every position on the field. In particular, the inclusion of King will significantly improve their forward structure, allowing the team to be even more dangerous in attack. With King’s contested marking and goal-scoring ability, the Magpies now have a true focal point in their forward line, something that was lacking in previous seasons. His presence will also create more space for other players like Jamie Elliott and Brody Mihocek, who can now work in tandem with King to create an even more dangerous forward unit.

In the midfield, Witts and Mitchell add more depth and experience, giving the team a better chance of winning crucial clearances and gaining first use of the ball. Witts’ dominant ruckwork combined with Mitchell’s ball-winning ability will give Collingwood the upper hand in contested situations, allowing their playmakers to shine. The added flexibility provided by Jackson, who can move between the ruck and forward positions, will allow coach Craig McRae to exploit opposition weaknesses and create more dynamic matchups.

Frampton’s arrival will also strengthen the backline, adding another reliable option to Collingwood’s defensive setup. With a strong defense and a dynamic forward line, the Pies are now one of the most balanced teams in the league, capable of competing on all fronts. This new-look Collingwood side will be a force to be reckoned with in the 2024 AFL season.

The Bigger Picture

The five acquisitions represent Collingwood’s commitment to building a squad capable of challenging for the AFL premiership in 2024 and beyond. The club has long been one of the league’s most successful sides, and these moves signal their intent to remain a dominant force in the competition. By bringing in a mix of experienced stars and emerging talent, Collingwood is positioning itself for both short-term success and long-term sustainability. These strategic signings have the potential to elevate the Magpies to new heights, and fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a thrilling season ahead.

With such a well-balanced and talented squad, Collingwood is ready to challenge for the AFL crown. The new additions provide the team with the depth, versatility, and skill needed to compete against the league’s best. As the 2024 season approaches, expectations are high, and the Pies are poised to make a serious run at the premiership.