𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: Collingwood Football Goes ALL IN on 194CM Free Agent Defender Jack Silvagni to Bolster Defensive Stocks

In a move that is already sending shockwaves through the AFL world, Collingwood Football Club has made its intentions crystal clear: they are going ALL IN on landing 194cm free agent defender and fan-favourite Jack Silvagni.

According to an exclusive from The Herald Sun, the Magpies have already agreed to contract terms with Silvagni, making a bold and calculated play to bring the former Carlton utility into the black and white. The report indicates Silvagni has shown a clear desire to join Collingwood, despite interest from several other clubs — some of which were willing to offer more money and greater role flexibility. But it appears the pull of the Magpie army — and a chance at contending immediately — was too strong to resist.

The 26-year-old, who has been a mainstay at Carlton since 2016, brings not just versatility, but legacy. A proud third-generation Blue, Silvagni has largely played as a forward or swingman, but insiders say Collingwood is targeting him strictly for a defensive role, where his aerial ability, game IQ, and toughness will help plug gaps in the Magpies’ backline. The club has been searching for a reliable tall defender, especially after ongoing injury issues and key departures have exposed depth concerns in 2025.

While some will raise eyebrows at Silvagni potentially donning anything other than navy blue, those close to the player say the switch is all business.

> “Jack loves Carlton and always will, but he wants to play meaningful footy at this stage of his career,” one source close to the family said. “Collingwood came with a plan — and it made sense.”

The deal, which is expected to be officially announced in the coming days, reflects Collingwood’s win-now mentality under coach Craig McRae. After falling short in the finals last season, the club is aggressively reloading — and sees Silvagni’s acquisition as a low-risk, high-upside play.

Off the field, the narrative writes itself. Jack Silvagni, long seen as the face of Carlton royalty, switching sides to one of their fiercest rivals? This one has AFL fans buzzing and could be one of the most talked-about off-season moves in years.

As for Silvagni, he’s reportedly excited by the opportunity to reinvent himself in a new environment, under a club that has a clear plan for his role and values what he brings beyond just stats — leadership, flexibility, and finals experience.

Collingwood fans, buckle up. The 2026 season is already getting spicy.

👀 The plan is clear.

📦 The deal is done.

🖤⚪ Jack Silvagni is on his way.