BIG MOVE IN THE AFL: Collingwood Secures Former Pick 13 Ben Hobbs Post-Bombers Exit
Collingwood has pulled off one of the most talked-about moves of the off-season, securing former Pick 13 Ben Hobbs following his sudden departure from Essendon. In a landscape where young, hard-nosed midfielders are worth their weight in gold, the Magpies have swooped decisively — and fans are already buzzing about what this means for their 2025 campaign.
A RISING TALENT WITH UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Hobbs, drafted in 2021 and long considered one of the most competitive midfield prospects of his class, leaves the Bombers after a turbulent season featuring inconsistent opportunities and role uncertainty. Despite flashes of brilliance, he struggled to cement his place in Essendon’s best 22 — a fact many supporters found baffling given his contested strength and natural leadership traits.
Collingwood, however, sees what others may have overlooked: a ready-made inside midfielder who still has massive upside.
THE MAGPIES’ MASTERSTROKE
With veteran bodies aging and the need for midfield succession becoming more urgent, Collingwood’s coaching hierarchy identified Hobbs as a perfect fit for their culture and game style. His appetite for the contest, elite work rate, and “never take a backward step” mentality mirror the core traits that have defined the modern Magpies.
The move is being hailed as a calculated win for Craig McRae’s side — a medium-term investment with the potential for immediate on-field impact.
WHAT HOBBS BRINGS TO THE BLACK AND WHITE
Contested ball pressure: Hobbs thrives in tight spaces and wins his own footy.
Two-way running: His defensive work rate is considered among the strongest of his age bracket.
Leadership DNA: Captained Vic Country and has always been regarded as a natural locker-room presence.
Ceiling still untapped: With a consistent role and stable system, many believe he can explode quickly.
ESSENDON’S LOSS — COLLINGWOOD’S GAIN
The Bombers’ decision to part ways with Hobbs has raised eyebrows across the AFL landscape. While Essendon continues to reshape its midfield under new strategic direction, rivals argue that allowing a young, fierce competitor to walk away could come back to haunt them.
Collingwood supporters, meanwhile, are celebrating what feels like a win from every angle — low risk, high reward, and immense potential.
WHAT COMES NEXT
Hobbs is expected to slot into Collingwood’s rotation early in the season, with whispers he could be trialled in a hybrid midfield-forward role. If he clicks quickly, the Magpies may have secured one of the steals of the off-season.
One thing is certain: the AFL world will be watching closely as Ben Hobbs begins a fresh chapter in black and white.
