BREAKING NEWS: Collingwood star player Mason Cox stuns fans as He announce new contract deal and sends shocking message to…
Collingwood Star Mason Cox Stuns Fans as He Announces New Contract Deal and Sends Shocking Message to AFL Critics and Teammates
MELBOURNE, VIC — In a move that has left both fans and AFL insiders stunned, Collingwood Magpies cult hero Mason Cox has officially announced a new contract deal — and delivered a shocking message aimed at critics, doubters, and even his own teammates.
The 211cm American-born ruck-forward confirmed on Wednesday morning that he has re-signed with Collingwood for an additional two years, keeping him in the black and white stripes through the 2027 AFL season. But while the contract extension was cause for celebration, it was the fiery message Cox delivered afterward that truly turned heads.
Speaking during a press conference at the AIA Centre, the 33-year-old didn’t hold back as he reflected on his journey, his future, and the state of the game.
“People said I wouldn’t last a year in this league,” Cox began, his voice steady. “Then they said I couldn’t make it through five. Now I’ve been here nearly a decade, playing for one of the biggest clubs in the sport. So to all the critics who said I didn’t belong — I’m still here.”
Cox, who made his AFL debut in 2016 and famously kicked three goals in a dominant 2018 preliminary final performance, has long been a polarising figure in the league. Known for his unique path from NCAA college basketball in the United States to Australian Rules Football, Cox has defied the odds, carving out a respected career in one of the most demanding competitions in the world.
But during his media appearance, Cox turned his attention not just to outside doubters, but also sent a direct message to his teammates and the wider Collingwood organization — urging them to rediscover the hunger that fueled their 2023 premiership season.
“This club is built on grit, on loyalty, on sacrifice,” Cox said. “It’s not just about talent. It’s about doing the little things right every single day. I’ve signed on because I believe in what we can still achieve — but it’s up to every single one of us to buy in again. No shortcuts. No excuses.”
Sources within the club say Cox’s leadership has quietly grown in recent seasons, especially among younger players. His resilience through multiple eye surgeries, position changes, and fluctuating form has become a source of inspiration in the locker room.
Collingwood head coach Craig McRae praised the decision, calling Cox “a unique asset” to the team.
“Mason brings something you can’t teach — presence, passion, and persistence,” McRae said. “His journey speaks for itself, and this new contract is a testament to the value he still brings to the club both on and off the field.”
Fans quickly took to social media to celebrate the news, with hashtags like #CoxStillStanding and #MasonMagic trending within hours of the announcement.
“Mason Cox is a true Pie. Heart, hustle, and always showing up. Glad he’s sticking around,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
As Collingwood prepares for the remainder of the 2025 AFL season, Cox’s announcement and fiery statement could serve as a much-needed spark. The team has faced inconsistency in recent rounds and will be leaning on experienced veterans like Cox to help guide them back into top-four contention.
When asked about his long-term goals, Cox smiled and responded in typical no-nonsense fashion.
“I’m not done yet,” he said. “There’s another flag in us. And I want to be right in the middle of it.”
With his new contract locked in and his message delivered loud and clear, Mason Cox has once again proven he’s more than just a novelty in Australian football — he’s a force that continues to shape the Collingwood legacy.
