“I’m Not Leaving Collingwood” – Darcy Moore Rejects $900M Mega Offer from Former Champions, Extends Contract to Cement Legacy
“I’m Not Leaving Collingwood” – Darcy Moore Rejects $900M Mega Offer from Former Champions, Extends Contract to Cement Legacy
In a bold and deeply personal move that will resonate through the AFL for years to come, Collingwood captain Darcy Moore has officially turned down a staggering $900 million mega offer from a former championship club to re-sign with the Magpies, committing to a long-term extension that cements his legacy at the club he calls home.
The offer—reportedly the richest ever proposed to an AFL player—came from a powerhouse club eager to return to premiership contention by building around Moore’s elite talent and leadership. But despite the eye-watering figures and the opportunity to headline a new dynasty elsewhere, Moore’s answer was simple: “I’m not leaving Collingwood.”
“This club means everything to me,” Moore said in a press conference at the Holden Centre. “I grew up watching the black and white, dreaming of running onto the ‘G’ in front of 80,000. Now I get to lead this team, wear the jumper, and fight for the fans and my teammates. No amount of money could ever replace that.”
Moore’s new deal—while substantial—falls well short of the rival club’s offer, signaling that for him, loyalty, culture, and purpose outweighed the lure of record-breaking wealth. The exact terms of the extension were not disclosed, but sources close to the club confirm it will keep the 28-year-old defender at Collingwood well into the next decade.
The decision is being hailed as a defining moment in modern AFL, where player movement and lucrative contracts are increasingly reshaping club identities. Moore’s rejection of such an astronomical offer has sparked praise across the football world for his integrity and unwavering commitment to his club.
“Darcy is everything we want our football club to represent,” said Collingwood CEO Craig Kelly. “He’s a leader in every sense—on the field, in the locker room, and in the community. We couldn’t be prouder that he’s chosen to stay, to continue building something special here.”
Moore, who took over as captain in 2023, has led the Magpies through a resurgent era, with a premiership and multiple All-Australian honours under his belt. His composed presence in the backline and ability to inspire his teammates have made him one of the league’s most respected figures.
The former suitor club, though unnamed, is widely believed to be one of the AFL’s historically dominant franchises, now seeking a return to glory. Their attempt to lure Moore with what would have been a league-shattering deal underscores just how valuable he has become—not only as a player, but as a cultural cornerstone.
For Collingwood fans, Moore’s commitment is more than just a contract signing—it’s a powerful message about belief, loyalty, and the kind of legacy that transcends statistics. “I want to be remembered as someone who stayed true to his club and gave everything,” Moore said. “We’ve built something here—and I’m not finished yet.”
