Three sign new deals, and a Collingwood defender is delisted.
It’s believed the backman was told his time with the Pies was up.
A five-year Collingwood defender has reportedly been informed his tenure at Olympic Park will not continue into the 2024 season.
Defender Will Kelly, who has managed just five AFL games since his 2018 drafting, is understood to have been delisted by the Magpies and will not receive a 2024 contract
Despite having already lodged five delistings to this point in the off-season, the Pies don’t appear to be finished making changes to their list in preparation for their flag defence.
Collingwood confirmed the backman’s departure on Friday, with list boss Graham Wright tipping his cap to the 23-year-old.
We thank Will for all that he has put in across five seasons with the Club,” Wright said.
“Unfortunately for Will, he has faced injury challenges that have kept him out of the AFL side, but his strong willpower and ability to develop through our VFL program should be commended.
We have informed Will we will consider adding him as a train-on player over the pre-season if we have SSP spots available following the completion of the draft process in November.”
Kelly, whom the Magpies matched an Adelaide Crows bid for under father-son rules in 2018, fractured his elbow during his league debut in 2020 and only managed four further games in black and white.
The stopper could try his hand in the delisted free agency market when that window opens next Wednesday, November 1.
Prior to the apparent cutting of Kelly, the Pies delisted Trent Bianco, Arlo Draper, Cooper Murley, Trey Ruscoe, and Tom Wilson.
In brighter news, Nathan Kreuger, Josh Carmichael and young ruck Aiden Begg have each inked one-year extensions to stay on under Craig mcRae.
While the trio would only combine for three senior appearances in 2023, each offers the Pies a handy skill set, whether inside the contest, ahead of the ball or at stoppages.
We’re pleased to have Aiden, Nathan and Josh on board for another season,” Wright added.
“Our football program is committed to investing in the next wave of young talent, and today’s signings reflects this strategy.
“Since joining us, Josh has seamlessly integrated into our game plan and has shown great determination. Nathan and Aiden have both displayed skill and commitment that underlines his potential.
“Their commitment to this Football Club at AFL and VFL level is highly commended. We look forward to their contributions in 2024.”
Collingwood recently wrapped up its player movement period, welcoming ex-Docker Lachie Schultz via trade, while farewelling veteran midfielder Taylor Adams to the Sydney Swans and forward Jack Ginnivan to Hawthorn.
The Magpies now shift their attention to this year’s National Draft, which commences on November 20 and continues into a second night on November 21.
