The 10 Best Collingwood Magpies of the 21st century

Collingwood’s rich history in the 21st century is marked by some of the game’s most celebrated players. Here’s a countdown of the top ten stars who defined an era for the Magpies.

10. Chris Tarrant (2000-2006, 2011-2012)

A versatile forward-turned-defender, Tarrant made his mark with five leading goalkicker awards (2001-2005) and an All-Australian selection. Across 172 games, he kicked 289 goals, averaging 1.7 per game. His athleticism and ability to take spectacular marks made him a fan favorite.

9. Brody Mihocek (2018-present)

One of Collingwood’s most reliable forwards of the modern era, Mihocek has led the club’s goalkicking for five consecutive seasons (2019-2023). A key part of the 2023 premiership team, Mihocek’s consistency is reflected in his 212 goals across 126 games, maintaining an average of 1.7 goals per match.

8. Darcy Moore (2015-present)

The current skipper, Moore, has established himself as one of the league’s elite defenders. A two-time All-Australian (2020, 2023) and captain of the 2023 premiership-winning side, Moore’s leadership and intercept-marking ability have solidified his importance in Collingwood’s backline through 150 games.

7. Alan Didak (2001-2013)

A creative forward with a knack for the spectacular, Didak earned a best and fairest (2006), two All-Australian selections (2006, 2010), and was a crucial part of the 2010 premiership team. With 274 goals across 218 games, Didak’s flair and accuracy made him a standout contributor.

6. Brodie Grundy (2013-2022)

A modern ruckman who revolutionized the role, Grundy won back-to-back best and fairest awards (2018, 2019) and earned two All-Australian honors during that period. Across 177 games, he dominated with 5,629 hitouts (31.8 per game), impacting both in the ruck and around the ground.

5. Travis Cloke (2005-2016)

One of the club’s most dominant key forwards, Cloke was Collingwood’s leading goalkicker four times (2011-2014). A premiership player in 2010 and a two-time All-Australian, he kicked 441 goals in 246 games, averaging 1.8 goals per match, combining physicality and precision in front of goal.

4. Steele Sidebottom (2009-present)

A dual premiership player (2010, 2023) and two-time best and fairest winner (2017, 2018), Sidebottom has been a cornerstone of Collingwood’s midfield for over a decade. Known for his endurance and consistency, he averages 23.6 disposals across 309 games and has polled 101 Brownlow votes.

3. Nathan Buckley (2000-2007)

A Collingwood legend, Buckley capped his stellar playing career with a Brownlow Medal (2003), a Norm Smith Medal (2002), and three All-Australian selections (2000, 2001, 2003). Across 138 games in the 21st century, he averaged 24.5 disposals and guided the Magpies as captain to two Grand Finals in 2002 and 2003.

2. Dane Swan (2002-2016)

One of the AFL’s most decorated midfielders, Swan won the 2011 Brownlow Medal, three best and fairest awards, and five All-Australian honors (2009-2013). His ability to rack up disposals was unmatched, averaging 26.85 per game across 258 matches. Swan’s dominance was a key to Collingwood’s success, including their 2010 premiership.

1. Scott Pendlebury (2006-present)

The epitome of consistency and leadership, Pendlebury is Collingwood’s greatest modern player. With a Norm Smith Medal (2010), five best and fairest awards, and six All-Australian selections, he has been the club’s backbone for nearly two decades. A dual premiership player (2010, 2023), Pendlebury has played a record 383 games, averaging 25.8 disposals and earning 221 Brownlow votes, cementing his place among the AFL’s all-time greats.

Collingwood’s modern stars have built a legacy of excellence, ensuring the club remains a powerhouse in the AFL.