Collingwood are reportedly exploring a move for Sydney Swans forward Jack Buller, with the 22-year-old’s contract status still unresolved beyond the 2025 season. The Magpies are believed to be keen on adding depth to their tall forward options ahead of next year.
Breakthrough season for Buller
Buller produced his most productive AFL campaign this year, booting 11 goals from nine matches. Injuries to Joel Amartey and Logan McDonald opened the door for Buller to step into a more prominent role, where he impressed as both a target inside 50 and a link-up player in attack.
Originally drafted mid-season in 2023 from Claremont, Buller had to wait until his second year to debut. After just one appearance last season, he returned in Round 16 this year against the Western Bulldogs, kicking his first career goal and retaining his spot for the remainder of the campaign.
Collingwood’s forward shuffle
The Magpies have been experimenting with their tall forward line in recent years, having added Dan McStay and Tim Membrey under coach Craig McRae. However, McStay was dropped late in the year for veteran Mason Cox, who is also out of contract. Key forward Brody Mihocek, the club’s leading goalkicker in five seasons, has yet to finalise his future.
With Buller not eligible for free agency, any move to the AIA Centre would likely need to be brokered via trade unless the Swans decide to delist him.
Draft picks in play
Collingwood hold selections 33, 51, 64 and 69 in this year’s draft, in addition to future picks for 2026 and 2027, giving them some flexibility if they choose to pursue Buller.
According to SEN’s Sam Edmund, the Magpies are “interested in luring” the West Australian south to Melbourne, as they continue fine-tuning their forward structure ahead of another premiership tilt.
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