MASON COX DROPS UNEXPECTED MESSAGE ON AFL FUTURE
By 7News Sports — October 24, 2025
In a development that has sent ripples through both the AFL community and the international sports scene, Collingwood’s American-born ruckman Mason Cox has delivered an unexpected message about his AFL future — one that has left fans questioning whether the towering Texan has played his final game in the black and white stripes.
The 211-centimeter AFL premiership player, known for his remarkable journey from college basketballer in the United States to an Australian rules football star, has never been one to shy away from bold statements. But this latest revelation — made in an emotional and candid moment — has taken many by surprise and reignited discussion about the challenges and triumphs of international players in Australia’s most unique and demanding sport.
A Career Built on Defying Expectations
Mason Cox’s story is one that reads almost like a movie script. Born in Dallas, Texas, he grew up playing soccer and basketball, sports that dominate the American athletic landscape. It wasn’t until his early 20s, while studying engineering at Oklahoma State University, that Cox even heard of Australian Rules Football.
In 2014, a chance encounter changed his life. Spotted by AFL scouts during a talent identification camp in Los Angeles, Cox impressed with his height, agility, and coordination — rare attributes in a man of his size. Within months, he was on a plane to Australia, signing a rookie contract with Collingwood Football Club, one of the oldest and most passionately supported teams in the AFL.
Fast forward nearly a decade, and Cox has become one of the most recognizable — and polarizing — figures in the game. His journey from American novice to AFL premiership hero stands as a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and sheer belief. But now, at 34, Cox’s future appears uncertain.
The Unexpected Message
Speaking in a heartfelt interview with 7News Australia, Cox hinted that he may be considering a major change.
“I’ve been incredibly lucky to live this dream for so long,” he said, draped in the U.S. flag following Collingwood’s post-season celebrations. “But there comes a time when you start thinking about what’s next — both for your body and your life outside of football.”
The statement immediately set off speculation among fans and analysts alike. Was Cox suggesting retirement? Or could he be hinting at a new role within the AFL, perhaps in coaching or media? Some have even suggested the possibility of a return to the United States, where Cox has previously expressed interest in promoting Australian football at an international level.
Adding fuel to the fire, Cox later posted on social media:
“No matter what happens next, I’ll always be proud of what we’ve achieved. From Texas to the ‘G’ — what a ride.”
The post, which quickly went viral, drew thousands of comments from supporters thanking him for his contributions to the game. Many expressed disbelief that Cox’s AFL journey could be nearing its end.
A Legacy That Transcends the Field
Beyond the goals, the marks, and the highlight reels, Mason Cox’s impact on the AFL extends far beyond the scoreboard. As the only American-born player to ever play in — and win — an AFL Grand Final, Cox has become a symbol of the sport’s global potential.
His performances in the 2018 finals series, particularly the unforgettable preliminary final against Richmond, have gone down in AFL folklore. That night, Cox dominated the skies at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, kicking three goals and earning the chant from the crowd: “USA! USA! USA!” It was a defining moment not only for Collingwood but also for international fans discovering AFL for the first time.
Since then, Cox has used his platform to promote Australian rules football around the world, particularly in the U.S., where he hosts a popular podcast and regularly appears on international media outlets to explain the game’s appeal.
“It’s a sport like no other,” Cox once said. “It’s fast, it’s fierce, and it’s full of heart. I want more people back home to see what makes it so special.”
The Toll of Time and the Next Chapter
Despite his resilience and fitness, Cox’s career hasn’t been without challenges. Multiple eye injuries between 2019 and 2021 left him partially blind in one eye, leading to speculation that his career might be over. But true to form, he battled back to full health and returned to help Collingwood claim the 2023 AFL Premiership — a triumph that many thought would be the fairytale ending to his remarkable journey.
Now, with his 2025 season completed and his contract nearing expiration, the big man finds himself at a crossroads.
Sources close to the club suggest that while Collingwood values Cox’s leadership and experience, the team is also preparing for a generational shift, focusing on developing younger ruckmen and forwards. Cox, ever the realist, seems to understand this.
“I’ve always said I’d rather retire a year too early than a year too late,” he told 7News. “I love this club, and I’ll always be part of the Collingwood family — but life has chapters, and maybe it’s time to start the next one.”
Fans React: From Shock to Gratitude
The response to Cox’s comments has been overwhelming. Across social media, thousands of fans shared their admiration for the American pioneer.
One supporter wrote, “He’s the reason I started watching AFL. If Mason Cox retires, it’s truly the end of an era.”
Another added, “From a country that didn’t even know what footy was to conquering the MCG — absolute legend.”
Even rival players have chimed in with messages of respect. A Geelong defender wrote, “Say what you like about him, but Mason Cox has changed the game. He proved that AFL can reach anyone, anywhere.”
Cox’s Future: Beyond the Boundary Line
While retirement remains unconfirmed, Cox has hinted at several potential post-football ventures. Among them is a possible move into broadcasting — an area where his charisma and insight have already made an impression.
He’s also been deeply involved in ambassadorial roles for the AFL’s international development programs. With his engineering background and passion for education, some believe Cox may return to the U.S. to help establish AFL academies and youth outreach programs there.
“Growing the game globally would be a dream,” Cox said. “If a kid in Oklahoma or California picks up a Sherrin because they saw me play, then that’s a legacy I’ll always be proud of.”
Collingwood’s Response
Collingwood Football Club released a brief statement following Cox’s remarks, acknowledging his immense contribution to the team and the sport:
“Mason Cox has been an extraordinary ambassador for Collingwood and for Australian Rules Football. His journey from the U.S. to AFL premiership glory has inspired countless fans. Discussions about his future are ongoing, and the club fully supports Mason in whatever path he chooses next.”
The respectful tone of the message suggests that both parties are preparing for a possible transition, but not before celebrating what has been one of the most unique careers in AFL history.
A Farewell or a Fresh Start?
Whether Mason Cox decides to hang up the boots or continue his AFL journey in a new capacity, one thing is certain: his story will be remembered as one of courage, adaptability, and the unyielding pursuit of possibility.
From a tall kid in Texas to a champion on Australia’s biggest sporting stage, Cox’s journey has defied every expectation — and if his latest message is indeed a hint toward retirement, he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire athletes across continents.
As the man himself said:
“I came here not knowing what footy was. Now it’s a part of who I am. Whatever comes next, that’ll never change.”
And with that, Mason Cox — the American who conquered the AFL — may be preparing to close one chapter of his incredible story, while opening another that could take Australian football to new global heights.
