𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐖𝐎𝐎𝐃 𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐒 𝐉𝐀𝐂𝐊 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐑 𝐈𝐍 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐕𝐄
Collingwood has pulled off another smart piece of list management, securing young key forward Jack Buller from Sydney in a trade that also sees the Magpies receive a future fourth-round draft pick in exchange for their future third-round selection. The deal, while modest on paper, has been hailed as a strategic masterstroke — one that bolsters Collingwood’s forward depth heading into the next AFL season.
For the reigning premiers, this trade is less about blockbuster headlines and more about building smartly for sustained success. Buller, 22, arrives at the AIA Centre with hunger and untapped potential. Standing at 199cm and boasting a strong contested marking ability, he offers Collingwood a powerful aerial presence and a reliable target inside 50. After limited opportunities at Sydney, where he managed only a handful of senior appearances, the move to Collingwood represents a fresh start and a chance to develop under one of the league’s most balanced systems.
Magpies List Manager Graham Wright expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting Buller’s work ethic and long-term potential.
> “Jack is a competitive young forward who we believe has the attributes to fit into our structure really well. He’s hungry, he’s got the size, and he’s willing to learn from our senior players. This is a move with both the present and future in mind,” Wright said.
For Buller, the switch is equally exciting. Known for his determination and professional approach, he now joins a forward group led by stars like Brody Mihocek, Jamie Elliott, and Bobby Hill. With Mihocek entering the later stages of his career and Dan McStay recovering from injury setbacks, Buller’s arrival provides valuable reinforcement and flexibility for coach Craig McRae’s forward setup.
The trade also reflects Collingwood’s knack for making the most of marginal draft assets. Swapping a future third-rounder for a promising player plus an additional future fourth-round pick is seen as shrewd list management — the type of calculated move that has underpinned their recent dominance. Rather than overpaying for established names, the Magpies have again targeted a developing player who fits their culture and system.
At Sydney, Buller was widely respected for his attitude and training standards, even while struggling to cement a regular senior spot. The Swans wished him well in a short statement, acknowledging that the move was in the best interest of both parties.
> “Jack has shown great character during his time with us, and we’re pleased he’s got an opportunity to pursue his AFL ambitions elsewhere,” the club said.
With preseason just weeks away, Buller is expected to slot straight into Collingwood’s training program and push for a Round 1 debut in 2026. His mix of physicality, endurance, and marking strength could make him an ideal fit in McRae’s high-pressure, fast-transition system.
While this trade might fly under the radar compared to blockbuster moves elsewhere, those within the football community know it’s often these quiet, calculated decisions that keep top clubs on top.
Collingwood may have just unearthed another gem — and Jack Buller could be the next name to thrive in black and white.
