GOOD NEWS: Nick Daicos Signs New Deal to Stay at Collingwood Until 2028
In a move that has electrified the AFL world and brought immense relief to the Magpie Army, Collingwood superstar Nick Daicos has officially committed his long-term future to the black and white. The 21-year-old phenom, widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential young players in the game, has put pen to paper on a new deal that will keep him at the club until the end of 2028.
This announcement is nothing short of fantastic news for Collingwood supporters, the playing group, and the AFL community at large. Daicos, already a household name and one of the league’s brightest stars, has chosen loyalty over uncertainty, sending a clear message that he wants to be a cornerstone of the Magpies’ success for years to come.
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A Rising Star Secures His Future
Nick Daicos’ rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment he was drafted under the father-son rule in 2021, the son of Collingwood legend Peter Daicos was burdened with expectations—and he has not only met them but shattered them. His debut season in 2022 saw him claim the Rising Star Award, showcasing composure, skill, and vision beyond his years.
In 2023, he went a step further, emerging as one of the league’s most impactful midfielders. His ability to accumulate possessions, dictate play, and influence games in clutch moments drew comparisons to the very best in the competition. By 2024, Daicos was not only Collingwood’s most important player but also a genuine Brownlow Medal contender, a feat rarely achieved by someone so early in their career.
It is this meteoric rise that made his contract extension such a priority for Collingwood. Securing Daicos was about more than just talent—it was about locking in the future face of the club.
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Why This Deal Matters
The deal running until 2028 is significant for several reasons:
1. Stability for Collingwood – The Magpies now have certainty that their midfield engine and playmaker will be part of their premiership window for the next four seasons at least. In a league where player movement is increasingly common, this commitment ensures Collingwood can build around Daicos with confidence.
2. A Symbol of Loyalty – In an era when rival clubs aggressively pursue young stars with massive financial offers, Daicos’ decision to stay at Collingwood reinforces the values of loyalty and legacy. For fans, this resonates deeply—it’s not just about the money; it’s about identity and pride.
3. A Recruitment Magnet – Having Daicos locked in strengthens Collingwood’s appeal to other players considering their futures. Young footballers want to play alongside elite talent, and Daicos’ presence makes the Magpies an attractive destination.
4. A Fan Favourite Secured – Beyond his on-field brilliance, Daicos has become a fan favourite, adored for his humility, work ethic, and love for the game. The emotional connection he shares with supporters ensures that this contract extension will be celebrated for years to come.
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What Daicos Brings to the Club
Nick Daicos’ influence cannot be overstated. His unique blend of football IQ, silky disposal, and composure under pressure makes him one of the most watchable players in the AFL. At just 21, he has already shown the capacity to dominate in multiple roles, whether rebounding off half-back, slicing through the midfield, or pushing forward to kick goals.
His leadership qualities are equally noteworthy. While not yet a captain, Daicos carries himself with maturity and calmness that inspires teammates. Many within the Collingwood inner circle see him as a future captain, someone who will eventually take the reins once veterans like Darcy Moore and Scott Pendlebury move on.
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The Bigger Picture for Collingwood
This contract extension represents more than just keeping a star player—it’s about safeguarding Collingwood’s identity. The Magpies are one of the AFL’s most storied clubs, with a passionate fan base and a long tradition of homegrown heroes. With Nick Daicos locked in, the club has secured a symbol of that tradition.
The timing is also crucial. Collingwood are in the thick of their premiership window, boasting a list filled with talent and experience. With Daicos at the heart of their midfield, alongside the likes of Jordan De Goey, Josh Daicos, and Jack Crisp, the Magpies are well-positioned to challenge for multiple premierships in the coming years.
This deal ensures that Collingwood’s blueprint for success remains intact. It also reduces the off-field distractions that often come with contract speculation, allowing the team to focus squarely on football.
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The Reaction
Unsurprisingly, the news of Daicos’ deal has been met with widespread celebration. Social media lit up within minutes of the announcement, with Collingwood fans hailing it as “the best signing in years” and “a massive win for the club.” AFL pundits echoed this sentiment, with many noting that locking away Daicos was arguably the most important move the Magpies could make this decade.
Even rival fans acknowledged the significance, some expressing envy that Collingwood had managed to keep one of the game’s most exciting young talents away from the lure of big-money offers elsewhere.
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Conclusion
Nick Daicos’ decision to extend his stay at Collingwood until 2028 is more than just a contract signing—it’s a statement of intent. It signals that the Magpies are not just building for the present but for a sustained era of success.
For the fans, it’s reassurance that their beloved star isn’t going anywhere. For the club, it’s the cementing of a foundation around which they can continue to build premiership aspirations. And for the AFL, it’s the continuation of one of the most exciting careers the game has seen in recent memory.
The deal is finalized, the future is secured, and the black-and-white faithful can breathe a sigh of relief: Nick Daicos is here to stay.
