Recent Collingwood debutant Joe Richards has found himself in the spotlight as rival clubs reportedly express interest in securing his services for the 2025 season. The 24-year-old forward is currently without a contract, making him an attractive prospect for teams seeking to bolster their line-ups.
Richards made an impressive AFL debut during Collingwood’s victory over West Coast, showcasing his skills with 18 disposals, six tackles, and a goal. His performance earned praise from senior coach Craig McRae, who called upon Richards to fill the void left by several key players’ absences.
Despite Collingwood’s interest in retaining Richards, his contract status and promising talent have caught the attention of rival clubs, according to reports. With speed becoming increasingly valued in the AFL, Richards could become a sought-after asset if he continues to excel at the top level.
While Collingwood may prioritize retaining Richards, they face competition from other clubs eager to secure his signature. The forward’s pace and skill in the forward line make him an appealing prospect for teams looking to strengthen their squads.
Richards joined Collingwood via the 2022 National Draft, and despite facing injury setbacks in his debut season, he has impressed in the VFL. His strong performances in the state league, coupled with his promising AFL debut, have heightened interest in his services.
As Collingwood prepares to face Adelaide this weekend, Richards is expected to feature prominently once again. His continued development and potential make him a key figure in Collingwood’s plans, but his contract uncertainty has left the door open for rival clubs to make their move.