Collingwood has announced a new wave of list changes, delisting tall forward Nathan Kreuger, midfielder Jack Bytel, and forward Josh Eyre as the Magpies look to free up spots for potential mature-age recruits.
The decision to part ways with the trio comes as Collingwood looks to bring in physically robust players who can relieve the pressure on key forwards Brody Mihocek and Dan McStay.
Kreuger, 25, has faced a turbulent run with injuries, managing only 13 senior games since joining the Magpies in 2022.
Acquired from Geelong during the 2021 trade period, the athletic big man's career has been punctuated by repeated shoulder injuries, along with recent hamstring and calf issues, limiting his on-field impact.
Magpies Head of Football Strategy, Innovation, and List Management, Justin Leppitsch, commended Kreuger for his resilience.
“Nathan's commitment to his football and our program, despite numerous setbacks, is something to be admired. We wish him, Jack, and Josh every success in their future pursuits,” Leppitsch said.
Bytel, previously on St Kilda's list for five years before being picked up by Collingwood in the 2024 pre-season supplementary period, played seven senior games this year. Despite a limited opportunity, he added depth to the Magpies' midfield across both AFL and VFL programs.
Eyre, originally with Essendon and also added through the supplementary period, did not make an AFL appearance, sidelined by a severe hamstring injury.
As Collingwood eyes the future, they are reportedly exploring deals with experienced players, including St Kilda's Tim Membrey and Jack Hayes.
Membrey recently underwent a medical assessment with the Magpies, signalling the club's interest in the versatile forward as a likely addition. With Membrey's proven goal-kicking ability and Hayes' key-position capabilities, both players could bolster Collingwood's offence and depth of experience in 2025.
Membrey's back half of 2024 suggests there is still plenty in the tank for a potential late-career premiership run, especially with a glaring hole to be filled in Collingwood's front half.
Adding further intrigue, the Magpies have also been linked to Melbourne free agent Adam Tomlinson, though Melbourne has indicated no formal approach has been made for the versatile defender.
Collingwood's draft picks - currently at 52, 55, and 58 - are limited, with the club opting to trade early selections in pursuit of established talent, including the recent acquisition of Port Adelaide's Dan Houston.
These moves reflect Collingwood's all-in approach, with the Magpies focusing on immediate premiership contention rather than draft capital.
With further announcements on list changes expected, the potential signing of Membrey, in particular, should provide the Magpies with valuable forward reinforcements as they pursue sustained success in 2025.