Collingwood may consider bringing back former Port Adelaide tall Brynn Teakle next week as they face a potential ruck depth crisis in the second half of their premiership defense.
The Magpies are currently missing third-string ruckman Aiden Begg (knee) for the season and Oscar Steene (toe) for at least eight weeks. Coach Craig McRae will have just one recognized ruckman available next week, with Mason Cox in concussion protocols and potentially sidelined longer due to a knee injury.
Although Darcy Cameron has managed the ruck workload before, another injury would force Collingwood to rely on Nathan Kreuger or Billy Frampton during a critical period, including two matches against Max Gawn and Melbourne.
Collingwood had considered adding Teakle during the pre-season, where he trained as one of six players at Olympic Park. Despite narrowly missing out on a spot, Teakle has been impressive with East Fremantle in the WAFL, averaging 16.3 disposals, 36.5 hitouts, and nearly a goal per game from six matches.
Given their current ruck issues, Collingwood might revisit Teakle as an option, especially with the opportunity to fill up to two spots in next Wednesday’s Mid-Season Draft. Other clubs like Richmond, Adelaide, Carlton, Melbourne, and the Western Bulldogs may also show interest in the six-game experienced ruckman.
Collingwood’s first pick in the draft could be as early as Pick 11, with their second pick around Pick 22. Additionally, the Magpies may look to strengthen their key defensive stocks following Nathan Murphy’s retirement, considering options like Peel Thunder’s Jacob Blight and West Adelaide’s Will Patton.
There is also a chance the club’s VFL program could lose key forward Jack Hutchinson and midfielder Ned Long to AFL lists following strong starts to their seasons.
