Collingwood offers Neale glimpse of future Rowell pairing in 2027
Collingwood told dual Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale he could partner with restricted free agent Matt Rowell from 2027 onwards.
Collingwood has revealed part of its pitch to attract Lachie Neale: the prospect of playing alongside Matt Rowell in 2027. The Magpies told Neale that while he would join newly-minted Brownlow medallist Nick Daicos next month, Rowell could join them the following season.
Rowell, 25, is a restricted free agent next year, and the industry expects he will return to Victoria, though Collingwood is preparing to push hard for his signature. The pitch unites three Brownlow medallists who would have won four of the last seven Brownlows between them.
Daicos presented the 2026 Brownlow to Rowell and the pair won a school premiership together at Carey Grammar in 2019. Collingwood has been hunting midfield firepower, having also pursued Zak Butters this year.
- 25
- Rowell age
- Four of last seven
- Brownlow Medals won
- Carey Grammar 2019
- School premiership
- Restricted free agent
- Rowell status
Why it mattersAssembling multiple Brownlow medallists in one midfield would reshape the AFL's competitive balance heading into 2027.
AustraliaIf Collingwood lands both Neale and Rowell, it would dramatically strengthen the Victorian powerhouse's prospects and alter the 2027 AFL premiership race.
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