Collingwood is set to explore several avenues to potentially find a replacement for retired premiership defender Nathan Murphy, with next month's Mid-Season Draft shaping as a window where the reigning premiers could bolster their backline.

The unfortunate and abrupt ending to Murphy's career will open up a list spot that the Magpies could use to fill a void in defence midway through the year while waiting for the off-season might be an option should they be patient enough.

Collingwood has found some positive in Billy Frampton's return to Craig McRae's side over the past month, while Charlie Dean and Joshua Eyre are also set to be in the selection mix going forward.

Murphy's forced exit is the latest unwanted defensive departure at Olympic Park, with the Magpies losing both Tom Langdon and Jordan Roughead in years gone by.

So how could Collingwood use the Mid-Season Draft, or upcoming trade and free agency periods, to aid their backline?

We explore several differing Mid-Season Draft prospects, as well as the names potentially up for grabs from other AFL clubs at the end of the season.

4. Experience at the MSD

Should the reigning premiers be keen on adding an already experienced defender to their rearguard through the Mid-Season Draft, then they're not short on options.

Recent drafts have seen the likes of Caleb Poulter, Quinton Narkle, Sam Durdin, Will Hayes and Will Snelling earn a new chance in the AFL, with a handful of recently delisted defenders potentially viable options for Collingwood to consider.

Former St Kilda backman Tom Highmore was considered unlucky to be cut by the Saints at the cessation of last season, with the 26-year-old deciding to remain in Victoria for 2024 by signing with VFL outfit Port Melbourne.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 17: Thomas Highmore of the Saints runs with the ball during the round 18 AFL match between St Kilda Saints and Port Adelaide Power at Marvel Stadium on July 17, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

Higmore recently represented Victoria in the State Game against South Australia and would collect 21 disposals and seven marks in a head-to-head matchup with ex-Hawthorn forward Jackson Callow.

The Canberra-born backman has started the season with the Borough just as positively, averaging over 20 disposals and six marks per game from four matches.

Other experienced options at the state league level include Cameron Fleeton, Aiden Bonar, Lachie Young and Connor McFadyen.