It sounds like you’re drafting a 500-word piece or report on Jamie Elliott’s contract situation — here’s a structured write-up you can use or adapt as needed:
Jamie Elliott’s Future in the Balance as Gold Coast Circles
Veteran Collingwood forward Jamie Elliott is reportedly on a $425,000-a-year deal across two seasons, but with AFL rivals circling — including the Gold Coast Suns — the Pies may need to sweeten the pot if they want the 33-year-old to stay in black and white.
Elliott, a fan favourite and one of the most clutch performers in recent Collingwood history, remains “very keen” to stay at the club he debuted for in 2012. However, as contract talks heat up, it’s understood that rival clubs — particularly the Suns — are monitoring his situation closely and could make a play if the Pies don’t come to the table with a more competitive offer.
While $425,000 per year might seem respectable, it’s notably below the average AFL salary, which now sits at approximately $500,000. For a player of Elliott’s calibre — who played a key role in the club’s 2023 premiership and still has plenty to offer when fit — it could be seen as a bargain by other clubs looking to add experienced depth and leadership to their list.
Gold Coast’s interest, in particular, is intriguing. With Damien Hardwick now steering the Suns and a clear mandate to bring experience into a young, developing list, a proven finals performer like Elliott could be invaluable. While Elliott has battled injuries throughout his career, his ability to turn games — especially in high-pressure moments — makes him a rare commodity in today’s game.
Sources close to Elliott say his preference remains with Collingwood, where he has spent his entire AFL career. But loyalty can only stretch so far if the financial gap is too wide — particularly as Elliott approaches the twilight of his playing days. At 33, this next deal could well be his last, and securing fair value will be paramount for both his on-field legacy and post-football transition.
Collingwood’s salary cap situation remains tight, especially with several younger stars coming into their prime and commanding higher contracts. The club may be hesitant to increase Elliott’s deal significantly, particularly given his age and injury history. But the leadership and experience he brings — both on and off the field — may be hard to replace, especially for a side still in premiership contention.
There’s also a cultural element at play. Elliott is one of the few remaining links to earlier eras of Collingwood football, and his presence in the locker room is said to be significant. Losing a player of his stature — even if not at his absolute peak — could disrupt the fabric of a close-knit group that’s thrived under coach Craig McRae.
Ultimately, the ball is in Collingwood’s court. Elliott’s loyalty is strong, but rival interest is real, and if the Pies want to keep him, they may need to meet somewhere closer to the AFL average salary — or risk watching one of their most beloved modern players finish his career in another jumper.
Let me know if you’d like a more journalistic or casual tone — or if you want it trimmed or expanded.
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