𝑪𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒘𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝑺𝒊𝒈𝒏 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒓 𝑷𝒊𝒄𝒌 𝟏𝟑 𝑩𝒆𝒏 𝑯𝒐𝒃𝒃𝒔 𝑨𝒇𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝑩𝒐𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝑫𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 🖤🤍
In a shock move that has sent ripples through the AFL community, the 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐰𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐂𝐥𝐮𝐛 has officially secured the signature of former Essendon midfielder Ben Hobbs, just weeks after his surprise delisting from the Bombers.
The 22-year-old was originally drafted as Pick 13 in the 2021 AFL Draft and was long considered one of Essendon’s brightest young prospects. Known for his aggression around the contest, ball-winning ability, and relentless tackling pressure, Hobbs’ sudden exit from Tullamarine raised eyebrows across the league.
Sources close to the Magpies confirm that recruitment discussions began almost immediately after Essendon made their decision. Collingwood’s football department, led by Graham Wright and Craig McRae, reportedly saw an opportunity to add depth and intensity to their midfield brigade — one already boasting the likes of Nick Daicos, Jordan De Goey, and Tom Mitchell.
Hobbs, who averaged 19 disposals and 5 tackles per game in 2024, is eager to revive his AFL journey in black and white. “I’m grateful for the chance to start fresh,” Hobbs said during his official signing announcement at the AIA Centre. “Collingwood’s culture speaks for itself — I just want to earn my spot and contribute to something special.”
For the reigning premiers, the move reflects their ongoing commitment to sustaining success through shrewd list management and player development. Fans have already embraced the signing online, calling it a “masterstroke” and a “perfect Magpies fit.”
With pre-season training only weeks away, all eyes will be on Ben Hobbs — and whether the former Bomber can rise again under the bright lights of the Collingwood banner.
