Key Questions Surrounding the Blues
There are several pressing questions about the future of key players in the Carlton Football Club. The murmurs surrounding the futures of Patrick Cripps and Jacob Weitering continue to echo throughout the AFL landscape. Recent reports indicate that both players might consider offers from other clubs. With Cripps set to be under contract until 2027 and Weitering until 2031, they are seen as some of the few players with trade value. If the Blues decide to rebuild, could their leaders be the catalyst for a new era?
Scott Pendlebury’s Record-Breaking Game
Collingwood superstar Scott Pendlebury is poised to make a significant financial gain from his record-breaking appearance. An AFL statement mentioned that any commercial arrangements would remain private and confidential. Pendlebury could potentially wear up to eight jumpers during the game.
The Pies icon is set to earn 100 percent of the profits made on merchandise for his record-breaking game. This is a notable shift from the 2017-2022 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which included a testimonial clause for up to $100,000. However, this was removed in the new CBA (2023-2027), requiring Collingwood to seek approval from the AFL. Normally, players receive only 65 percent of profits, highlighting just how much the Pies value Pendlebury.
Collingwood’s Interest in Ben King
Collingwood is reportedly stepping back from the race for Gold Coast free agent Ben King, who is expected to sign a two-year extension with the Suns. The Pies have long been in need of a key forward, and their interest in King dates back over a year. However, a report on Channel Seven suggested that the Victorian powerhouse is no longer pursuing him.
Uncontracted Players
Jed Walter and Mitch Lewis remain uncontracted for next year. Their status is a concern for the club as they look to build a strong team for the upcoming season.
Bobby Hill’s Absence
Collingwood is expected to be without Bobby Hill for Friday night’s blockbuster against Sydney. Hill has been working his way back after a challenging second half of last year but has shown signs of readiness to return to the AFL. The 2023 Norm Smith Medallist has spent the past month in the VFL, building up his fitness, but is still tipped to miss this weekend.
