Port Adelaide legend Kane Cornes has criticized Collingwood’s recent list management, suggesting the team has painted itself into a corner by extending contracts for veterans Steele Sidebottom, Jeremy Howe, Scott Pendlebury, and Will Hoskin-Elliott.

Pendlebury, who confirmed in June he would continue playing into 2025, now leads a group of four key players re-signed for the upcoming season. Collingwood’s list manager, Justin Leppitsch, emphasized their crucial roles and leadership both on and off the field.

However, Cornes argues that this move doesn’t address Collingwood’s aging roster. With eleven players over 30 next season, including Pendlebury (37), Howe (35), and Sidebottom (34), the Pies face a significant challenge in maintaining competitiveness.

Cornes points out that Collingwood’s limited draft picks and long-term planning issues may lead to a mass player exodus after next season. The team, with picks 32, 48, and 50 in the upcoming draft, may struggle to replenish their squad.

St Kilda great Leigh Montagna also warns that Collingwood needs to plan for the future, as their squad’s age and lack of young talent, apart from standout Nick Daicos, could become problematic. Montagna suggests the Pies need to make critical decisions about their aging players and prioritize building a younger team.