Delisted Melbourne defender Adam Tomlinson has set his sights on continuing his AFL career in 2025, with Collingwood and Gold Coast shaping as the two most likely destinations for the experienced tall.
The 31-year-old, who was let go by the Demons after five seasons, has expressed his desire to remain in the league and is in discussions with both clubs as he considers his next move.
As reported by Tim Mitchell of the Herald Sun, Collingwood and Gold Coast have emerged as the front-runners in the race to secure Tomlinson's services.
With 185 AFL games under his belt and a reputation for versatility, Tomlinson is hoping to extend his career at a third club following his stints at Greater Western Sydney and Melbourne.
While he acknowledged that his future remains uncertain, Tomlinson is staying optimistic about the opportunities ahead.
"There are some opportunities โ possibly. But I can't really sit here and tell you that I will definitely be playing AFL, as much as I really hope to,โ he said in a recent interview on SEN.
Collingwood's interest in Tomlinson comes as no surprise, with the reigning premiers looking to strengthen their key position depth, particularly in defense. The forced retirement of premiership defender Nathan Murphy due to ongoing concussion issues left the Magpies stretched at times during their 2024 campaign.
Collingwood list boss Justin Leppitsch previously stated the club's focus on adding experienced talls to their roster, mentioning Tomlinson as one of the players they were assessing.
โHe's in that mix because we want some experience in that final [list] position,โ Leppitsch said on AFL Trade Radio.
However, the Magpies also have their sights set on former St Kilda forward Tim Membrey, which could complicate their pursuit of Tomlinson.
On the other hand, the Gold Coast Suns are also eyeing Tomlinson to provide valuable experience to their young backline. With the Suns looking to solidify their defensive structure under new head coach Damien Hardwick, Tomlinson's ability to play as both a key defender and a utility option could be an attractive addition to their list.
Though with Sam Collins fresh off his second best & fairest, Charlie Ballard entering his prime years and a couple of young Suns capable of playing a key role in defense, role security for Tomlinson may not be a certainty on the Gold Coast.
St Kilda were another club thrown into the mix early, given their need to fill the defensive void left by Hawthorn recruit Josh Battle.
Tomlinson's delisting from Melbourne marked the end of a challenging stint with the Demons, where injuriesโincluding a ruptured ACL in 2021โlimited his opportunities.
Despite his struggles to secure a consistent spot in Melbourne's senior side, he was a standout performer at VFL level, helping the Casey Demons to a premiership in 2022. His resilience and work ethic have kept him in the mix for a third AFL chapter.
As Tomlinson weighs his options, he remains focused on finding the right fit to extend his career.
"We have spoken to Collingwood, a few others, [and] Gold Coast,โ he said, acknowledging no major rush in the decision-making process.
Regardless of where he lands, Tomlinson is determined to make an impact if given the chance, though he has also hinted at his readiness to transition into a post-playing role if necessary.
โIf I'm not playing, I'd love to find a way to stay in [football],โ he added.
As the AFL's delisted free agent period approaches, the decision on whether Tomlinson will continue his career at Collingwood, Gold Coast, or another club is likely to unfold in the coming weeks.
