Collingwood have issued statements about potentially stripping Darcy Moore of the captaincy as part of a significant AFL shake-up. Kane Cornes believes the club should make a bold move by appointing Nick Daicos as captain next season, arguing Moore’s form has been inconsistent. The Magpies are hoping to bounce back in 2025 after a heavy preliminary-final defeat to eventual premiers Brisbane.
Cornes criticised Collingwood for making minimal changes after the season, saying the side has “gone backwards” by failing to rejuvenate its ageing midfield. He suggested coach Craig McRae should seriously consider elevating young star Daicos to captain so he can take greater ownership on the field.
Moore became captain in 2023 and immediately led the team to a premiership, fulfilling every expectation since taking the role. However, Cornes has surprisingly suggested McRae might need to rethink the leadership structure. While he expects Moore will probably remain captain in 2026, Cornes said he would personally hand the job to Daicos, believing the rising star is ready for the responsibility.
“Is this the year for Nick Daicos? It’s a big call,” Cornes said on SEN Radio. “Moore is the safe option — he’s reliable. But do you want to play it safe or inject some flair? Moore is too easy to play against. He’ll have strong games — like the final against Adelaide — but too often he gets exposed and concedes multiple goals. I would change it, but I think they’ll stick with the safe choice.”
Cornes argued Collingwood should switch to Daicos as captain, though he doubts they will, given Moore’s popularity. He was also unimpressed with the Magpies’ overall Trade Period and suggested they could struggle next year.
His criticism extended beyond Collingwood. He said that Zach Merrett, who asked for a trade to Hawthorn that never happened, should no longer be Essendon’s captain. Cornes believes Andrew McGrath should take over in 2026 and that Sam Durham could eventually assume the long-term captaincy.
Two weeks earlier, Cornes had taken aim at Collingwood for failing to bolster their midfield after being outplayed by Brisbane. The Magpies completed only two trades: Brody Mihocek was sent to Melbourne for a future third-round pick, and Jack Buller was acquired cheaply. The club later re-signed Lachie Sullivan and Noah Howes, likely their final moves before next month’s draft.
The Trade Period did little to inspire supporters. Collingwood missed out on Jy Simpkin despite interest, and were reportedly eyeing Clayton Oliver. After the season, Mason Cox and Tom Mitchell were also confirmed as delistings.
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