Mason Cox is set to continue his unique AFL journey next year, with the Texan about to hit a trigger clause to remain at the Magpies in 2023.
Last year Cox signed a one-year deal (also by trigger clause) that guarantees another season if he reaches a certain amount of games.
The Collingwood big man has played five games this season, the past three in a row, withย The Herald Sun believing the game requirement can be met.
The AFL future of the 31-year-old was in question earlier this year, but a long-term injury to ruckman Brodie Grundy was a blessing in disguise for Cox.
He has worked well in tandem with fellow ruck/forward Darcy Cameron, highlighted in his Round 11 game against Carlton.
The American had 11 disposals, six marks and a goal in the four-point win, highlighting he can still have an impact and win games.
Cox will soon become an Australian citizen, and is keen to play on next year.
Speaking to KIIS 101.1 earlier this week, he went into detail on his eye injuries which have resulted in him wearing prescription goggles during games.
"I wonโt get into the details too much but essentially half my eye was pulled off, half my retina fell off and I had to go into hospital, sew the thing back up and was blind," Cox told the Jase & Lauren Show.
"For about 45 minutes of every hour I was on my back staring at the ceiling unable to see for two weeks. Two weeks on my own in a dark room not being able to see anything."
The Magpie has undergone six surgeries since he tore his retina in an incident with then Suns ruckman Peter Wright.
His other retina was also detached in an altercation with Tom Barrass during the 2018 grand final.
The use of goggles has seen him a target of ridicule, which he links to Australian culture, however, he has also labelled comments by media as "disgusting".
"Sometimes itโs actually still people in the media talking about it and saying some disgusting things about it to be honest. But Iโm not going to get into it too much," he said.
"Yeah, it is a medical thing man. It is a different look, I understand that and itโs different for people to see it.
"But Iโve almost gone blind from playing footy so Iโm essentially going to have to protect my eyes so I can actually have a life post this, being able to see."
Cox has made 81 appearances for 94 goals as a Magpie since joining the flock ahead of the 2015 season.
