Collingwood’s seasoned player Steele Sidebottom is set to kick off his 18th season playing AFL after agreeing to a one-year contract extension for 2026 with the Magpies. Additionally, important defender Jeremy Howe has also committed for another season.
Sidebottom and Howe have joined their 2023 championship teammates Darcy Cameron, who signed until 2029, and Scott Pendlebury, who is signed until 2026, in extending their contracts with the team recently. The Magpies are gearing up for another chance to win the championship in three years.
Justin Leppitsch, the General Manager of List and Talent Strategy, expressed his excitement about both players choosing to stay with the club as they aim to take advantage of their current winning window.
We are really happy that Steele and Jeremy will be with us in 2026. They both have a lot of experience and understanding about the game and are well-respected within the Club.
“Both on and off the field, Steele and Jeremy play important roles in our program, setting high standards and guiding their teammates.
“With their amazing careers already, we are eager to see ‘Sidey’ and ‘Howey’ continue to have a big impact on our team and help mentor our younger players. ”
At 34 years old, Sidebottom continues to beat the odds and remains a strong presence for Collingwood both in the game and outside of it.
In 2025, he has been averaging 21.7 touches of the ball per game, paired with 4.0 tackles and 12 goals. He also received 48 votes from coaches for the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year Award, which is the highest he’s had in a regular season since 2018, when he finished with 64 votes.
Howe has been a vital part of Collingwood’s defense all season long. When he plays a full match, the team gives up only 72.1 points per game, showing just how crucial he is for their championship goals.
The club is optimistic about securing a spot in the preliminary final with a win over Adelaide next Thursday, and Howe’s recovery from his recent groin injury is expected to be ready in time for that weekend.
