Collingwood leads race for Gold Coast’s Jake Rogers as Suns Academy graduate seeks exit

Collingwood is the frontrunner to sign Gold Coast Suns’ Jake Rogers, according to AFL Media. The 21-year-old Academy graduate comes out of contract at season’s end and has played just five games in 2026. Gold Coast has begun preliminary talks on an extension, but Rogers has attracted interest from rival clubs seeking to bolster their lists.

Why Rogers is available

Rogers was drafted by Gold Coast with Pick 14 in the 2023 intake and has played 23 AFL games since then. This season he has struggled to break into the senior side, appearing in only five matches. He sits behind Ben Long, Leo Lombard, Bailey Humphrey, Beau Addinsall, Zeke Uwland, Jai Murray and Dylan Patterson in the forward line pecking order.

Last year, Rogers received rival interest but was unable to facilitate a move because he was under contract. The Broadbeach product is now free to explore options as his current deal expires at season’s end.

Collingwood’s interest and list strategy

The Pies are pursuing Rogers as part of a broader list rebuild. Collingwood is also looking to facilitate an exit for Norm Smith Medallist Bobby Hill, whose deal runs until the end of 2030. Hill has struggled with off-field issues for 18 months and is an inconsistent feature at the club.

Rogers represents a younger prospect who could provide depth in the forward line. Collingwood is the frontrunner among a host of clubs vying for his signature, according to recent trade reports.

Gold Coast’s departures and retention challenge

The Suns have struggled to retain fringe players in recent years. Last year, Malcolm Rosas (Sydney), Brayden Fiorini (Essendon), Ben Ainsworth (Carlton), Sam Flanders (St Kilda) and Connor Budarick (Western Bulldogs) all found new homes. Gold Coast has begun preliminary talks on an extension with Rogers beyond this year, but his limited game time may push him toward a fresh start elsewhere.

Rogers’ situation reflects a broader AFL trade cycle where young players seek opportunities at clubs where they can secure regular senior football.

What’s next for Rogers

With Collingwood leading the race, Rogers will likely field offers from other clubs during the trade period. His age (21) and draft pedigree (Pick 14) suggest he has time to develop at a new club with greater opportunity. The Suns’ preference for an extension may not align with Rogers’ desire for consistent game time, making a trade likely before the November deadline.

Final Thoughts

Rogers’ move to Collingwood or another rival club appears probable given his limited opportunities at Gold Coast. At 21 with 23 games played, he represents a prospect seeking a fresh start rather than a marquee trade target. His departure would continue Gold Coast’s pattern of losing fringe players to better-positioned clubs.

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