Collingwood Star Beau McCreery Breaks Silence on Tasmania's Reported $7 Million Offer
Collingwood forward Beau McCreery has publicly addressed swirling reports that he is a prime target for Tasmania's incoming AFL team, which is scheduled to enter the competition in 2028. The 25-year-old speedster, who is out of contract at the end of the 2025 season, finds himself at the center of speculation after AFL Media revealed that the Devils are prepared to table a staggering offer of approximately $7 million over seven years.
McCreery's Initial Reaction: "Rattled" by the News
Speaking on Triple M's Mick in the Morning program, McCreery admitted he was taken aback when news of the potential deal broke. "I was just as rattled as you were when you heard it," he confessed. "Big word is 'reportedly'. No, they haven't reached out personally." Despite the lucrative rumors, McCreery emphasized his current commitment to Collingwood, stating, "I'm still contracted to Collingwood for the next two years, so my eyes are on the prize there, and obviously we've got a big game this weekend."
However, his attempt to downplay the situation was met with laughter from both himself and the show's hosts, with commentator Titus O'Reily quipping, "You can't even get through it without laughing!"
Further Comments and Teammate Speculation
McCreery also discussed the offer during an appearance on The Fox's Fifi, Fev and Nick, where he was questioned by Carlton great Brendan Fevola. He revealed that his partner had alerted him to the news, saying, "I was about to put the phone down last night and my Mrs tapped me on the shoulder and said, 'What's the go here?'" Reiterating his loyalty, he added, "I'm still contracted. I love the Pies."
The conversation naturally shifted to fellow Collingwood star Nick Daicos, who is also rumored to be on Tasmania's radar once his contract expires in 2029. McCreery joked about his teammate, saying, "I am good mates with Nick. You'd be thinking Nick will take all the money, wouldn't you?" When pressed further about the financial incentives, McCreery expressed uncertainty about leaving Melbourne, hinting at personal ties to the city.
McCreery's AFL Journey and Playing Style
Drafted by Collingwood with pick No. 44 in the 2020 AFL Draft, McCreery quickly made his mark in the league. He played 13 games in his debut season before solidifying his spot in the Magpies' best lineup in 2022 as a dynamic pressure forward. His contributions were pivotal in 2023, as he featured in all but one game during Collingwood's premiership-winning campaign.
Known for his relentless tackling and defensive pressure, McCreery has expanded his role this year, spending more time in the midfield and utilizing his explosive pace to great effect. This evolution in his game has only heightened his value, making him an attractive prospect for expansion teams like Tasmania.
Implications of Tasmania's List Concessions
Under the AFL's rules for new franchises, Tasmania will benefit from significant list concessions, allowing them to sign out-of-contract players as free agents, with the player's original club receiving compensation from the league. This means that even though McCreery won't technically be a free agent by 2028, Tasmania could still secure his services without a trade, provided he remains uncontracted.
As the AFL landscape prepares for Tasmania's entry, the speculation surrounding high-profile players like McCreery and Daicos underscores the strategic moves clubs are making to build competitive rosters. For now, McCreery remains focused on his duties with Collingwood, but the allure of a landmark deal looms large on the horizon.
