Season-Ending Blow: Collingwood’s Jeremy Howe Ruled Out After Cruel Injury Contretemps Against Geelong
Collingwood head coach Craig McRae has delivered a devastating update following Thursday night’s clash at the MCG, confirming that veteran defender Jeremy Howe will miss the remainder of the season. Howe was rushed to hospital after sustaining a severe arm fracture during the Magpies’ defeat to the Geelong Cats.
The 36-year-old vice-captain left the field in the third quarter after an innocuous tackle, cradling his arm in clear distress before being subbed out and transported to a local medical facility for emergency scans.
In a cruel twist of fate, medical checks confirmed a fracture in almost the exact location of the compound arm injury Howe suffered during Round 1 of the 2023 season—an injury that also occurred in a match against Geelong.
Addressing the media post-match, a visibly shaken McRae confirmed the heartbreaking diagnosis and praised Howe’s standing within the club.
> “He’s unfortunately got a fracture in around the same place he broke a few years ago, funnily enough against the Cats,” McRae said. “He’s gone to the hospital and will undergo surgery. It’s a bitter pill to swallow for someone who gives everything to this group, and while we’re hoping the operation mends it smoothly, he won’t be back on the park for us this year.”
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Howe’s setback casts a dark cloud over Collingwood’s campaign. The high-flying defender has been an integral pillar of the Magpies’ backline, renowned for his intercept marking, defensive organization, and leadership alongside captain Darcy Moore.
The injury occurred midway through the third term as Collingwood were attempting a fightback from a heavy second-quarter deficit. Following a contest near the wing, Howe grabbed his arm immediately and signaled to the bench. Play was briefly paused while trainers attended to him, and he was taken straight down the race for immediate attention.
The loss compounds a growing list of concerns for McRae’s side, who were also forced to manage an early hamstring concern for Harry Perryman during the same contest. With the home-and-away season reaching its critical juncture, replacing Howe’s experience and aerial dominance presents a massive challenge for the coaching staff.
Teammates rallied around the veteran as news filtered through to the locker room. Known as one of the most respected figures in the AFL, Howe had been in stellar form, prompting discussions around a potential contract extension prior to Thursday’s game.
While Howe faces a lengthy rehabilitation road ahead, McRae expressed confidence in his veteran’s resilience.
“Jeremy’s come back from tough breaks before—literally—and he’ll have the full support of everyone at Collingwood while he recovers,” McRae added. “Our main focus right now is making sure he gets through surgery safely and surrounded by family.”
Collingwood is expected to provide a detailed medical update following Howe’s surgical procedure.
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