The AFL’s night of nights never disappoints, and the 2025 Brownlow Medal count was no exception. Fans across the nation tuned in for the drama, the glamour, and the recognition of the league’s very best. And while the medal itself slipped just out of reach, Collingwood’s Nick Daicos proved once again why he is one of the most electrifying talents in modern football, finishing runner-up with an incredible 32 votes.
For many, Daicos’ rise has been inevitable. From his early debut with the Magpies, he showcased maturity beyond his years, blending skill, composure, and creativity in a way few players could match. This season, however, he elevated his game to an entirely new level. Week after week, Daicos was the heartbeat of Collingwood’s midfield, seamlessly transitioning from defense to attack, setting up teammates, and producing moments of individual brilliance that will be replayed for years.
The 32 votes he polled underline just how influential his performances were. In a season filled with standout displays, Daicos managed to capture the attention of umpires and fans alike, often standing out even in games where Collingwood shared the spoils. Whether it was a 35-possession game where he dictated tempo, a laser-precise kick that cut through opposition defenses, or clutch goals under pressure, Daicos’ fingerprints were all over the Magpies’ success.
Brownlow night always brings its share of storylines, and Daicos’ charge up the leaderboard was one of the highlights. As the votes rolled in, Collingwood supporters across the country were glued to the count, daring to dream their star might claim football’s most prestigious individual prize. Though he ultimately fell just short, the result cemented his standing among the game’s elite.
It wasn’t just his numbers that stood out; it was the style with which he played. Daicos combines old-school footy intelligence with a modern edge of athleticism and creativity. His ability to read the play several moves ahead is reminiscent of legends of the past, yet his execution – sharp, clean, and daring – is uniquely his own. That blend of craft and flair is what has made him a fan favourite and a nightmare for opposition coaches.
The bigger picture for Collingwood is equally exciting. With Daicos still in the early stages of his career, the Magpies are building around a generational player who not only thrives individually but also elevates those around him. Younger teammates look to him for inspiration, while veterans admire his poise and professionalism. Few players strike that balance so early, and it speaks volumes about his leadership potential going forward.
The Brownlow runner-up finish will no doubt fuel Daicos further. Competitive by nature and driven by legacy, he will see this as both an honour and a motivator. To be recognized as the second-best player in the entire competition at just this stage of his career is staggering, but for Daicos, the chase for excellence never ends. The medal may not have landed around his neck this year, but there is little doubt that his time will come.
As the 2025 season closes, Collingwood supporters can reflect with pride. Their star midfielder didn’t just shine on Brownlow night; he illuminated the entire season. And with years ahead of him, Nick Daicos is not only the present of the AFL – he is its future.
