BREAKING: Collingwood Giant Mason Cox Seals Surprise Switch to Fremantle as SSP Signing on a Two-Year Deal
In one of the most unexpected list moves of the Supplemental Selection Period, American big man Mason Cox has officially departed Collingwood and signed a two-year deal with the Fremantle Dockers — a move that is set to reshape the Dockers’ ruck-forward structure heading into the 2026 AFL season.
The 211cm cult hero, beloved by Magpie fans for his finals heroics and towering presence, will now don the purple in what club insiders describe as a “strategic list coup” engineered to bolster Fremantle’s aerial dominance and depth.
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A SHOCK EXIT AFTER A GRAND CAREER IN BLACK AND WHITE
Cox’s shift west comes after years spent as one of Collingwood’s most unique assets. From his unforgettable 2018 preliminary final performance to his role in the club’s gritty 2023 premiership run, Cox carved out a career unlike any other in AFL history.
But with Collingwood recalibrating its tall stocks and Fremantle aggressively targeting experience, the SSP window became the perfect moment for a mutually beneficial move.
Despite the surprise factor, sources close to negotiations say Cox was eager for a fresh opportunity where he could play a more consistent role and mentor Fremantle’s developing talls.
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FREMANTLE’S NEW RUCK-FORWARD DIMENSION
For Fremantle, Cox’s arrival brings:
Elite contested marking presence
Backup and support for the primary ruck unit
A mature, finals-proven leader
A marketing and membership boost thanks to one of the AFL’s most recognisable personalities
Dockers officials believe Cox can form a dynamic partnership with their emerging rucks, giving coach Justin Longmuir renewed flexibility in both structure and rotations.
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Cox: “I’m All In. Can’t Wait to Get Started.”
In his first words as a Fremantle player, Cox expressed excitement and gratitude:
> “I’ve loved every moment at Collingwood, but I’m ready for a new challenge. Fremantle showed real belief in what I can offer. I’m all in — can’t wait to get started.”
He’s expected to join training immediately, with the Dockers keen to integrate him into their system ahead of pre-season match simulations.
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COLLINGWOOD FANS REACT WITH MIXED EMOTIONS
Magpies fans — who long considered Cox a cult figure — have taken to social media in a whirlwind of nostalgia, surprise, and appreciation. Many praised his continued determination and thanked him for unforgettable moments in black and white.
Collingwood, meanwhile, wished him well and acknowledged his enormous contribution on and off the field.
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WHAT THIS MOVE MEANS FOR THE AFL LANDSCAPE
Cox’s switch to Fremantle:
Gives the Dockers immediate ruck insurance and rare height
Signals Fremantle’s intent to push aggressively for finals
Leaves Collingwood with a reshaped tall division
Adds another fascinating chapter to Cox’s already incredible AFL journey
With the SSP window still open, more moves may follow — but few will carry the shock value or storyline weight of Mason Cox heading west.
