Collingwood have locked away star defender Brayden Maynard on a long-term AFL deal in a massive boost for new Magpies coach Craig McRae.
There had been speculation Maynard could look for opportunities elsewhere but he has committed to Collingwood until the end of the 2025 season.
Collingwood football boss Graham Wright had listed Maynard, along with Darcy Moore, as key priorities to re-sign before next season.
The 25-year-old was runner-up in the Magpies' best-and-fairest award this year and was named in the All-Australian squad.
"Brayden is a fine player who is approaching his prime," Wright said on Friday.
"He is also a heart and soul figure in our changeroom.
"His passion for his club and his teammates has made him a fan favourite and makes his decision to re-sign an important one on a number of levels.
"Brayden has developed into a first-rank player and we believe there is so much more to come.
"I know he has ambitions to lead and to bring along the many young players in our group."
Maynard stressed he was thankful to Collingwood for signing him up long-term.
"I saw so many reasons to stay and none to leave. It wasn't a question, in my mind," he said.
"I'm still striving to be as good for Collingwood as Collingwood has been for me."
Maynard has played 138 games for Collingwood since debuting in 2015.
The Magpies are still considering the future of star Jordan De Goey, who is due to face a New York court again in January.
The midfielder-forward was stood down by Collingwood soon after an incident at a Halloween-themed party at PHD Rooftop Lounge on October 30.
The Magpies are unsure about sticking with De Goey, regardless of the result of the court case, due to their concerns about his behaviour over a long period of time.
Collingwood endured a horror year, finishing 17th on the ladder, as club legend Nathan Buckley departed as coach in June.
Australian Associated Press
