Collingwood big man Mason Cox is facing an uncertain future, with reports suggesting the American ruck-forward has been encouraged to explore his options elsewhere. According to AFL reporter Cal Twomey, there is currently no guarantee that Cox will be offered a new deal at the Magpies beyond 2025, putting the 33-year-old’s career at a crossroads.
Cox, who has become a cult figure since making the leap from U.S. college basketball to AFL football, has played more than 120 games for Collingwood, including memorable finals performances that cemented his place in club folklore. Standing at 211cm, his unique story and presence have made him a fan favourite, but the business side of football appears to be catching up with him. With Collingwood reshaping its list and looking to inject more youth into key positions, the club has not yet committed to extending Cox’s tenure into the 2026 season.
Twomey’s report suggests that while Cox remains highly respected within the walls of the Holden Centre, Collingwood’s list management team is weighing up long-term strategies, particularly with younger ruck options developing. That uncertainty leaves the veteran with the task of considering opportunities at other clubs that may be in need of experience, height, and versatility.
For Cox, the news will no doubt sting, given his loyalty to Collingwood and the role he played in their 2023 premiership run. However, his journey has always been about resilience and proving doubters wrong. Whether he stays in black and white or takes his talents elsewhere, Cox still has the capacity to influence games and provide valuable mentorship to younger players.
As the trade period looms, his future will be one of the more intriguing storylines, with fans eager to see whether the Mason Cox story has another chapter left at Collingwood — or somewhere new.
