BREAKING NEWS: Cox Details Three Factors He Says Influenced Collingwood Delisting
Mason Cox, the towering ruck-forward and premiership hero, has spoken candidly about his recent delisting from Collingwood — revealing three key factors that he believes contributed to the club’s decision to let him go.
—
1. Aging List & Strategic Rebuild
Cox highlighted that Collingwood is in a phase of list refreshment, with an explicit focus on youth. Speaking publicly, he suggested that his delisting was not solely about his performance, but part of a broader strategy by the Magpies to move on some of their older players.
Veteran voices like Cox and Tom Mitchell were part of that wave. As SEN reported, Mitchell explicitly cited Collingwood’s “aging list” as part of the narrative driving the club’s decisions.
Cox accepted this reality, noting, “It’s a business … I understand that,” but also implied that he had become a sacrifice in the club’s pursuit of fresh talent.
—
2. A Disappointing 2025 Season
Despite being a long-serving Magpie, Cox only managed 10 senior games in the 2025 season.
That limited opportunity likely weakened his case for contract renewal — especially given the club’s push to optimize its list by integrating younger and more versatile players. While Cox has expressed his belief that he “definitely has more in me,” he acknowledged that consistent game time was harder to come by this past campaign.
—
3. A Tough Exit: Personal Dynamics & Respect
Perhaps most surprisingly, Cox revealed that his delisting conversation was emotionally complex. The meeting with key Collingwood figures — including his long-time coach Craig McRae, list boss Justin Leppitsch, and GM of Football Charlie Gardiner — wasn’t just business. Cox admitted it felt “awkward,” given his deep relationships within the club cultivated over more than a decade.
Still, he expressed profound gratitude for his time at Collingwood. In his farewell, he described the journey as life-changing, thanking staff, players, and, especially, the fans — whom he called “the best in the world.”
—
Looking Ahead: Cox’s Future
Despite the shock of being delisted, Cox is not ready to hang up his boots. He has confirmed interest in continuing his AFL career in 2026, hoping another club can see value in his experience — both on-field and as a mentor for younger teammates.
At 34, he believes he has “a lot left to give,” and is open to signing as a delisted free agent.
—
Why This Matters
Symbolic exit: Cox’s delisting is emotionally resonant — he’s not just any player, but a pioneer, being the first American to become a regular AFL figure and playing a key role in Collingwood’s 2023 premiership.
Strategic shift: The move underlines how Collingwood is prioritizing youth and longevity, even if it means letting go of established, loyal figures.
Market implications: Cox’s availability could spark interest from other clubs, especially those in need of a tall, experienced ruck-forward and a leader in the locker room.
