AFL Contract Drama: Collingwood’s Standoff with Jamie Elliott as Gold Coast Suns Circle
“It’s inconceivable that Collingwood would let it get to this.” Those words sum up the shock and disbelief rippling through the AFL community as Collingwood faces a contract storm surrounding one of its most dangerous forwards, Jamie Elliott. Known for his electrifying marking, clutch goalkicking, and unwavering connection with the Magpie Army, Elliott has long been a fan favourite. Yet as 2025 rolls on, his future in black and white is suddenly under serious threat.
According to reports, Collingwood’s latest contract tabled to Elliott has been described by insiders as a “borderline offensive offer.” While the Magpies have now reportedly upped the deal in a bid to retain him, rival clubs—most notably the Gold Coast Suns—are circling with interest, threatening to swoop in on one of Collingwood’s most important forwards.
The Heart of the Issue
Elliott’s value to Collingwood is undeniable. He has repeatedly been the difference in close matches, a player who thrives under pressure and can turn half-chances into game-winning goals. At 32, Elliott is no longer the young high-flyer who first burst onto the AFL scene, but his class, leadership, and experience remain priceless. For Collingwood to risk losing him, some argue, borders on negligence.
The sticking point appears to be money and tenure. Collingwood, facing salary cap pressure and juggling multiple key re-signings, is believed to have initially offered Elliott a short-term deal on terms that failed to match either his reputation or his market value. By comparison, the Gold Coast Suns—who are desperate to add proven match-winners to support their push into finals contention—are reportedly willing to offer more years and better financial security.
Why the Suns Are a Serious Threat
The Gold Coast Suns are no longer seen as an easy target for player poaching; instead, they’ve grown into a legitimate destination club. With a talented young list featuring Matt Rowell, Noah Anderson, and Ben King, the Suns are building toward a premiership window. What they lack, however, is seasoned finals experience and clutch performers who can guide the team through high-pressure moments.
Elliott fits that bill perfectly. His finals pedigree, proven ability to deliver in crunch time, and status as one of the AFL’s most reliable small forwards would provide the Suns with both leadership and firepower. Importantly, the Suns have the salary cap flexibility to pay Elliott what Collingwood seemingly will not.
Collingwood’s Dilemma
For Collingwood, the optics of this situation are almost as damaging as the reality. The Magpies are the reigning powerhouse, the AFL’s biggest club with a rich history of loyalty between players and fans. To be accused of disrespecting one of their most beloved figures by lowballing him sends a confusing message.
Fans are outraged. Social media is buzzing with commentary that Elliott deserves better, that Collingwood should not let contract negotiations sour their relationship with a player who has given his heart and soul to the jumper. The words “borderline offensive offer” have struck a nerve, fueling anger among supporters who fear losing yet another fan favourite due to financial constraints.
Adding further pressure is the symbolic importance of Elliott. He represents resilience—having battled injuries throughout his career only to come back stronger, delivering unforgettable moments year after year. His departure would not just weaken Collingwood’s forward line, but also cut into the culture and spirit that the Magpies have carefully built.
What Happens Next
The ball is firmly in Collingwood’s court. They have reportedly increased their offer, but whether it will be enough remains to be seen. Elliott’s management is said to be weighing loyalty against opportunity. On one hand, staying at Collingwood cements his status as a one-club hero. On the other, a move to the Suns could give him financial stability and the chance to write a new chapter in an emerging team’s history.
If the Magpies fail to close the deal, they risk not just losing Elliott, but also damaging trust with players who might question the club’s loyalty. For the Suns, this is a golden opportunity to pounce—literally and figuratively.
Final Word
The situation is teetering on a knife’s edge. It’s inconceivable for many fans that Collingwood would allow Jamie Elliott to walk away, but the AFL has seen this story before: star players pushed to the brink, rival clubs swooping in, and beloved figures departing in messy circumstances.
Whether Collingwood rectifies this mistake quickly or allows it to snowball into a full-blown exodus could define not only Elliott’s career, but also the Magpies’ reputation as a club that truly values its champions.
