Collingwood and Mason Cox have agreed to a one-year deal for the American to remain at the Holden Centre in 2022.
There was speculation during the free agency and trade period about the potential for Cox to depart the Magpies after the expiration of his contract this year.
However, following the loss of Max Lynch to Hawthorn and Collingwood's overall lack of bonafide key forwards, the 30-year-old's internal value at the club has seemingly increased.
Forward
Disposals
Marks
Goals
The Magpies confirmed the news on Thursday, with Collingwood football boss Graham Wright expressing his delight to have the ruck/forward utility re-sign.
“We are pleased to be in a position to retain Mason for another season,” Wright said in a club statement.
“We know Mason can play a number of roles for us. Players capable in the ruck and up forward offer great versatility to a team. We believe he has a lot to offer our group.”
Cox's best season-to-date came in 2018, when he averaged 9.9 disposals, five marks (both career-highs) and a goal across 24 games, as well as ranking third in the league in contested marks per game.
Despite still averaging over a goal a game in 2021, Cox has been inconsistent at senior level for the better part of the last two years.
Once Cox's re-signing becomes official, he will join John Noble, Jack Madgen, Trey Ruscoe, Jack Ginnivan and Tom Wilson in extending their time in the black and white this off-season.