Brayden Maynard’s 2025 AFL season has unfolded as one of the most defining periods of his career. The Collingwood defender and co-vice-captain has been central to major storylines involving contract negotiations, injury setbacks, leadership responsibility and league-wide cultural issues, all during a season shaped by finals pressure and heightened scrutiny.
Across more than a decade in black and white, Maynard has built a reputation as a player whose influence stretches beyond defence. This year, that influence has been felt as strongly off the field as it has during matches.
The Contract Announcement That Locked in a Magpie for Life
On June 12, 2025, Collingwood confirmed that Brayden Maynard had signed a four-year contract extension, committing him to the club until at least the end of the 2029 AFL season. The announcement came mid-season and immediately ended months of speculation surrounding one of the competition’s most sought-after defenders.
At the time of the deal, Maynard was 28 years old, an age widely regarded by clubs as late prime rather than decline. That context explains the scale of rival interest. North Melbourne was strongly linked to a long-term offer reportedly spanning five to six years, with media speculation placing its value close to $1 million per season. Sydney and Port Adelaide were also understood to have shown interest, though multiple reports suggested both clubs believed extracting Maynard from Collingwood would be difficult.
Neither Collingwood nor Maynard disclosed financial details, consistent with standard AFL practice. Media estimates placed the total value of the deal in the multi-million-dollar range, but Maynard framed the decision around loyalty and culture rather than money.
Speaking to Nine following the signing, Maynard said the moment was emotional, adding that the culture built over his 11 years at the club was something money could not buy. In a statement released by Collingwood, he said he was proud to continue wearing the black and white and described representing the Magpie Army as a privilege, closing with a familiar “Up the Maggies”.
For the club, the timing of the announcement was significant. It removed a major distraction during the season and secured a senior leader as Collingwood managed an experienced list while remaining firmly in finals contention.
From Pick 30 to Premiership Leader
Maynard’s AFL journey began when Collingwood selected him with pick No. 30 in the 2014 national draft. Since then, he has played his entire career at the club, passing the 218-game mark by the time of his contract signing, with that total continuing to rise as the season progressed.
Across that span, Maynard has developed into one of the AFL’s most recognisable defenders. His physical approach, courage in contest and willingness to absorb pressure have defined his style. Over time, experience has added composure and organisation to his game, making him a trusted on-field decision-maker.
His career highlights include All-Australian selection in 2022 and a key role in Collingwood’s 2023 premiership. By 2025, he had become a central figure in the club’s leadership group and a player teammates look to in critical moments.
Co-Vice-Captaincy and Leadership Under Pressure
In 2025, Maynard served as co-vice-captain alongside Nick Daicos, operating under captain Darcy Moore. His leadership role became more pronounced when Moore was sidelined with a shoulder injury earlier in the season.
During Moore’s absence, Maynard stepped in as a stand-in captain, reinforcing the trust placed in him by coaches and teammates. The role highlighted the way he leads — through physical commitment, accountability and presence rather than extended speeches.
Collingwood football boss Justin Leppitsch publicly praised Maynard during this period, describing him as the ultimate club person and a heart-and-soul player who leads from the front in every aspect. The endorsement reflected how central Maynard has become to Collingwood’s identity.
Injury Setback and Confirmed Return
Maynard’s season was interrupted by a plantar fascia injury to his foot, which flared during a match against North Melbourne. He was forced to leave the field early, with subsequent assessments confirming a rupture of the plantar fascia.
Club reporting described the issue as a flare-up of an existing condition rather than a fresh injury. While it was not considered season-ending, it required short-term rehabilitation and careful load management. Maynard missed matches and trained under modified conditions as Collingwood prioritised his long-term availability.
Later in the season, he returned to play, resuming his role in defence and reaffirming his importance to the team’s structure during the run toward finals.
Role in Defence and Tactical Flexibility
Primarily used on medium forwards and defensive match-ups, Maynard has long been valued for his ability to shut down opponents while providing rebound. During parts of the 2025 season, Collingwood also deployed him slightly higher up the ground as rotations shifted, relying on his flexibility and game awareness.
His intensity has remained constant. Several heated moments during the season, including a post-match exchange following a strong late tackle against Adelaide, reinforced his reputation as an uncompromising competitor.
Public perception of that edge has also been shaped by historical context, including the widely discussed 2023 qualifying final collision involving Angus Brayshaw. While Maynard was ultimately cleared and allowed to play in the grand final, the incident continues to frame discussion around his physical style.
Speaking Out During the Finals Build-Up
In August 2025, with finals approaching, Maynard became part of a broader AFL discussion when he publicly addressed the issue of homophobic slurs in football. His comments came during an AFL investigation into an alleged homophobic remark involving Adelaide forward Izak Rankine.
The timing added weight to the issue. The investigation occurred in the lead-up to finals, carrying potential suspension implications for Adelaide’s campaign. It was also the fourth alleged incident at AFL level in two seasons, intensifying scrutiny on league standards.
Maynard said the behaviour had happened too often and needed to be stamped out. While acknowledging the AFL’s efforts, he stressed that stronger and more consistent action was required across both men’s and women’s programs.
Following the investigation, the matter resulted in a suspension, reinforcing the AFL’s stance and bringing closure to the case.
How the AFL Integrity Process Works
Such cases are handled by the AFL Integrity Unit, which assesses incidents through umpire reports, audio and video review, and player statements. Outcomes vary depending on language used, intent and prior offences, explaining why recent suspensions have ranged in length.
The Rankine case followed earlier sanctions involving players from Port Adelaide, Gold Coast, West Coast, St Kilda and Sydney-affiliated VFL teams. The repetition of incidents has increased pressure on clubs and the league to improve education and accountability.
Maynard’s comments reflected a growing expectation that senior players play a role in driving cultural change from within.
AFLW Support and Club-Wide Standards
Support for Maynard’s stance came from within Collingwood’s AFLW program. Veteran AFLW player Sabrina Frederick spoke publicly about the importance of safety and respect across football environments, emphasising a no-tolerance approach.
Her comments highlighted the AFL’s increasing focus on club-wide alignment, with men’s and women’s programs sharing expectations and standards.
Off-Field Incident Without Lasting Impact
Earlier in 2025, Maynard was involved in a two-vehicle car accident in Melbourne. He was uninjured, and no serious harm was reported to others involved.
Collingwood confirmed the incident did not affect his availability, and Maynard returned to football duties shortly afterwards.
Collingwood’s Experience-Heavy List and Future Planning
Maynard’s recommitment came as Collingwood managed one of the AFL’s more experienced lists, with 16 players aged 28 or older, placing the club among the competition’s senior-heavy sides.
Despite that profile, club officials have been clear that a full rebuild is not the strategy. Instead, Collingwood aims to remain competitive while transitioning gradually, with leaders like Maynard expected to guide younger players through that process.
What Comes Next
With his future secured until 2029, Maynard is positioned to remain a cornerstone of Collingwood’s defence and leadership group. His role is expected to continue evolving, encompassing mentorship, cultural leadership and influence during future finals campaigns.
As the AFL continues to confront issues of conduct and respect, Maynard’s willingness to speak publicly suggests he will remain a prominent voice both on and off the field.
Conclusion
Brayden Maynard’s journey through the 2025 AFL season has underlined why he remains such a central figure at Collingwood and within the competition more broadly. His decision to recommit to the Magpies until 2029 brought clarity and stability during a period of heavy speculation, while his return from injury reinforced his resilience and long-term value to the club.
Beyond contracts and on-field roles, Maynard’s willingness to step into leadership positions and speak publicly on issues affecting the game has highlighted the responsibilities carried by senior players in the modern AFL. Whether leading in defence, filling in as captain, or calling for higher standards of respect across the league, he has continued to set an example through action and accountability.
As Collingwood looks ahead with an experienced list and sustained finals ambitions, Maynard’s influence is expected to remain significant. His combination of loyalty, competitiveness and leadership ensures he will play a defining role not only in the club’s future campaigns, but also in shaping the standards and conversations that continue to evolve within Australian football.
FAQs
Who is Brayden Maynard?
Brayden Maynard is an Australian rules footballer who plays for the Collingwood Magpies in the AFL. He was drafted in 2014 and has played his entire AFL career with the club.
When did Brayden Maynard sign his latest contract with Collingwood?
Brayden Maynard signed a four-year contract extension with Collingwood in June 2025, committing him to the club until at least the end of the 2029 AFL season.
Is Brayden Maynard a leader at Collingwood?
Yes. Brayden Maynard is a co-vice-captain at Collingwood and has also served as a stand-in captain during periods when the club’s captain was unavailable.
What injury did Brayden Maynard suffer in 2025?
During the 2025 AFL season, Brayden Maynard suffered a plantar fascia injury to his foot, which required short-term rehabilitation and managed training.
Did Brayden Maynard return to play after his injury?
Yes. The plantar fascia injury was not considered season-ending, and Brayden Maynard returned to play later in the 2025 season.
Why did Brayden Maynard speak about homophobic slurs in the AFL?
Brayden Maynard spoke publicly in August 2025 during an AFL investigation into an alleged homophobic remark involving another player, stating that such behaviour needed to be stamped out of the game.
Has Brayden Maynard played in an AFL premiership?
Yes. Brayden Maynard was a member of Collingwood’s 2023 AFL premiership-winning team.
How long has Brayden Maynard played for Collingwood?
Brayden Maynard has played for Collingwood since making his AFL debut in 2015 and has spent his entire senior career at the club.
