Collingwood Football Club faces uncertainty as captain Darcy Moore remains doubtful for the Opening Round match against St Kilda on March 8, 2024. Moore is recovering from a calf injury sustained during pre-season, and even if he makes a timely recovery, his disrupted training could strain the team’s defensive line.
The Magpies’ defensive depth is already being tested as several key players are currently training with the rehabilitation group. Jeremy Howe, Dan Houston, Isaac Quaynor, and Reef McInnes are all managing various injuries. Houston is expected to return to full training within one to two weeks after undergoing a minor hip procedure before Christmas. Quaynor, recovering from a hamstring injury, participated in stationary drills but is not yet back to full fitness. Moore’s condition adds to the defensive challenges, having suffered a hamstring injury post-Christmas.
Howe appears closest to resuming full participation, having engaged in complete drills, but the Magpies are exercising caution with his recovery from a calf injury. Meanwhile, McInnes has not played since undergoing a knee reconstruction early last season. With limited tall defensive options available, Billy Frampton stands out, while Joel Cochran is a potential inclusion, having trained well after playing 15 VFL matches in his debut season.
To address these concerns, Collingwood sought to recruit free agent Jack Silvagni from Carlton, but he ultimately joined St Kilda. Despite these setbacks, veterans Brayden Maynard and Harry Perryman are in good shape, with Maynard enjoying a pre-season free from foot issues. Wil Parker is also likely to receive an opportunity to contribute to the defensive setup.
As the focus shifts to the forward line, Collingwood has traded out Brody Mihocek and delisted Mason Cox. Dan McStay remains in rehabilitation due to a hamstring injury, while Beau McCreery is uncertain for the opener due to a foot injury. Additionally, Bobby Hill is on extended leave for personal reasons. These changes heighten the pressure on star forward Jamie Elliott, who scored 60 goals in the 2026 season and narrowly missed an All-Australian selection.
Elliott spoke to reporters on Thursday morning, acknowledging the challenges posed by the team’s inexperience. “It is pretty inexperienced at the moment… it is going to be interesting. It will be a new look forward line,” he stated. Collingwood is optimistic about Jack Buller, who was traded from Sydney, believing he will bolster their forward presence. Oscar Steene may also feature as a tall forward option.
Elliott highlighted that alternatives exist to fill the void left by Hill’s uncertain return. “Harvey Harrison, Will Hayes – there’s guys who can step into that role, [like] ‘Sull’ [Lachie Sullivan] when he gets back from injury and full training,” he noted. “There’s guys that can definitely come into that role – everyone adds [something] a little bit different.”
As Collingwood prepares for its season opener, the club’s ability to adapt to these injuries and new dynamics will be critical in their quest for success.
