In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves through the AFL community, American ruckman and Collingwood premiership hero **Mason Cox** has officially joined the **Fremantle Dockers** on a two-year deal, marking the end of his 11-year chapter with the Magpies and the beginning of an exciting new era in purple.
The announcement, confirmed by Fremantle in late November 2025 during the pre-season Supplemental Selection Period (SSP), came just weeks after Cox was delisted by Collingwood — a decision that left the 211cm tall stunned and many fans heartbroken. Cox himself described the exit as “a shock” and “abrupt,” admitting there are still details he’d like to understand about why the Magpies chose not to offer him a new contract after 139 games, 127 goals, and a pivotal role in their 2023 premiership triumph.
The move west represents a stunning lifeline for the 34-year-old (now 35 in March 2026), who many thought might retire after his Collingwood farewell. Instead, Cox boldly declared upon joining the Dockers that Fremantle boasts **”the best list in the competition”** — a bullish statement that raised eyebrows and sparked excitement among Freo supporters.
> “It might be a bit bullish to say, but I think it’s the best list in the competition,” Cox said in his first comments with the club. “You look at what they were able to do last year, the streak of wins. It’s pretty impressive, and hopefully I can add some experience along with everything else to continue that success.”
The signing reunites Cox with Fremantle senior coach **Justin Longmuir**, who previously served as an assistant at Collingwood. Dockers officials hailed the addition as a major boost, praising Cox’s premiership pedigree, durability, and versatility as a ruckman and key forward. Fremantle’s list boss David Walls emphasized the value of a **”211cm premiership ruck”** providing depth behind stars like Sean Darcy and Luke Jackson, especially after losing backup ruck Liam Reidy to Carlton.
Fremantle’s football GM Joe Brierty added that Cox’s experience will influence the group both on and off the field, offering mentorship to a young list and creating healthy competition for spots.
The announcement initially divided opinions — some critics questioned bringing in a 34-year-old after a limited 2025 season at Collingwood (just 10 games), while others celebrated the injection of proven big-man talent. Recent pre-season glimpses have only fueled the hype, with Cox reportedly kicking goals and showcasing his forward versatility during training drills.
This bombshell move keeps one of the AFL’s most remarkable stories alive: from a college basketballer in Texas who had never played Aussie Rules, to an international rookie in 2014, an Anzac Day debut hero in 2016, and now a cross-country trailblazer landing at his second club.
As the Dockers gear up for 2026 with renewed ambition, Cox’s arrival — and his confident claim about their list — has left fans buzzing and the team energized. Whether he forces his way into the senior side or provides veteran leadership, the American Pie has a new chapter to write in purple.
The AFL world is watching: could this shock signing be the missing piece for Fremantle’s first premiership? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain — Mason Cox isn’t done yet. #ForeverFreo 🇺🇸
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