Cox stays a Pie, Josh Daicos closing in on new deal

Collingwood’s out-of-contract big man Mason Cox has signed a new two-year deal, while the Magpies are close to locking away Josh Daicos on long-term contract.

The 32-year-old ruckman from Texas has committed to a new two-year deal after being backed in as the second ruck and forward by coach Craig McRae.

Hands up who wants a new contract: Mason Cox has re-signed for two more years at the Magpies. Credit: Getty

Sources with knowledge of the contracts, who did not wish to be named, confirmed the Cox deal and said the club also remained in negotiations with Josh Daicos’ management over a six-year contract extension.

The elder of the Daicos brothers, who will be an unrestricted free agent when he comes out of contract at the end of next year, is a priority re-signing for Collingwood.

Daicos was a bottom-age selection when taken as a father-son pick and so despite activating free agency, he will play all of next year as a 25-year-old and turn 26 in his next contract. His age has encouraged the club to consider long-term deal.

Nick Daicos with Josh Daicos and Jordan De Goey after the Magpies’ win over Sydney.Credit: AFL Photos

Cox, in contrast, is 32 years old but was also to be a free agent when coming out of contract at year’s end. He has been a regular under Craig McRae this year working as second ruck and forward to Darcy Cameron. He has played 13 games in the last two years, only missing through injury this year, after playing 32 in the previous three seasons (one of which was COVID-affected).

While Cox has largely had a good year and been an effective forward target and second ruck, averaging better than a goal and four marks a game, his form has dropped off recently.

He had a poor game on Saturday night against Port Adelaide when he was held goalless and managed only six disposals and two marks. His performance prompted pundit and former North Melbourne premiership player David King to warn he was under pressure to hold his spot.

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