Collingwood Football Club Officially Announces the Signing of Jonah Pezet on a One-Year Deal for the 2026 AFL Season
In a surprising yet exciting development for AFL fans, the Collingwood Football Club has officially announced the signing of rising star Jonah Pezet on a one-year deal for the 2026 AFL season. The former rugby league talent, known for his athleticism, leadership, and natural game sense, is set to make one of the most fascinating cross-code transitions in recent memory as he swaps the NRL for the AFL stage.
Collingwood confirmed the signing on Wednesday morning, describing Pezet as “an exceptional young athlete with elite competitiveness and the right mindset to thrive in professional football.” The move has instantly generated buzz around the AFL community, with many analysts labeling it a “bold but brilliant” acquisition for the reigning powerhouse club.
Pezet, 21, had previously made a name for himself in the NRL system, showcasing his potential as a skillful playmaker with Melbourne Storm. His ability to read the game, combined with his poise under pressure, made him one of the most promising prospects in rugby league. However, in a move that surprised many, Pezet recently expressed a strong desire to test himself in the AFL environment — a decision that ultimately led to his signing with Collingwood.
In a statement released by the club, Collingwood’s Football Manager Graham Wright praised Pezet’s determination and adaptability:
> “Jonah is an outstanding young man with a professional approach and a hunger to succeed. We’ve been impressed by his athletic traits, his work ethic, and his willingness to learn. We believe he has all the attributes to transition successfully into the AFL system and contribute to our squad in 2026.”
Pezet will join the Magpies during the preseason, where he is expected to undergo a specialized training program designed to refine his kicking technique, endurance, and positional awareness on the larger AFL field. Collingwood’s coaching staff, led by senior coach Craig McRae, has already outlined plans to integrate Pezet gradually into the team’s structure, with an initial focus on developing his skills as a half-forward or midfielder.
Speaking on his signing, Pezet expressed immense gratitude and excitement for the opportunity:
> “I’m incredibly thankful to Collingwood for believing in me and giving me this chance. The AFL is a completely new challenge, but I’m ready to give everything to learn, improve, and help the team in any way I can. I’ve always admired the professionalism and passion of Collingwood and can’t wait to pull on the black and white jumper.”
Fans have reacted with enthusiasm across social media, praising the club’s willingness to take risks and innovate in player recruitment. Many drew comparisons to other successful code-switchers who have made the leap between rugby and AFL, noting that Pezet’s athletic background and mental toughness could make him a valuable asset.
As Collingwood continues to build on its successful culture and strong roster, the addition of Jonah Pezet adds a layer of intrigue to the 2026 AFL season. Whether he becomes a long-term AFL success story remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — the Magpies’ latest signing has captured the imagination of fans and reaffirmed Collingwood’s reputation as one of the boldest and most forward-thinking club
s in Australian sport.
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