Craig McRae Welcomes Back Jeremy Howe to Collingwood for 2026 Season, Provides Update*
MELBOURNE — Collingwood head coach Craig McRae has confirmed the return of high-flying defender *Jeremy Howe* for the *2026 AFL season*, bringing back one of the club’s most admired players after a brief stint with Geelong.
In a press appearance on Friday, McRae expressed excitement over Howe’s return to the black and white. *“Jeremy’s presence, both on and off the field, is massive. He’s a leader, a competitor, and still has plenty of good footy left in him,”* McRae said.
Howe, who played the 2025 season with the Cats, is known league-wide for his spectacular marking ability and defensive leadership. The 34-year-old originally joined Collingwood in 2016 and played over 150 games for the club before his short-term move to Geelong.
McRae also provided a health update, noting that Howe is *“tracking well physically”* and is expected to participate fully in the 2026 preseason.
Fans have welcomed the news with enthusiasm, eager to see Howe soaring once again in the black and white. His return is expected to boost Collingwood’s backline experience and overall depth as they gear up for another flag push.