Despite sitting on top of the ladder, there is always room for improvement, and in Collingwood's case, there are two areas of the ground that should be looked at.

Their key defensive posts are still searching for more talent after the medical retirement of Nathan Murphy, albeit filled adequately by Billy Frampton.

The development of Ed Allan and Ned Long has only momentarily papered over cracks in the Pies' midfield, which will still need assistance beyond the years of Scott Pendlebury and Steele Sidebottom.

After going all-in for Dan Houston, the Pies' draft hand is bare, with their first selection coming at Pick 36, meaning their eyes will be on value prospects rather than big names.

It should also be mentioned that Collingwood has three draft prospects linked to the club, namely, father-son gun Tom McGuane.

But with premiership favouritism written all over them, will the Pies look to go aggressive again in the off-season?

Here are five trade and free agency targets for Collingwood to consider this year...

3Deven Robertson

Fagan addresses ex-disciple's injury after Grand Final heartbreak
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 16: Deven Robertson of the Lions in action during the 2022 AFL First Preliminary Final match between the Geelong Cats and the Brisbane Lions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 16, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Could the Pies renew their interest in the Lions midfielder?

Robertson was a consistent feature in Chris Fagan's side between 2021 and 2023, but fell out of favour as the club welcomed Will Ashcroft and Levi Ashcroft to the fold.

In the past two years, the former Pick 22 has played five matches, and could seek a trade once again.

Brisbane managed to convince Robertson to stay at the end of 2023, signing him to a two-year deal, but given the lack of opportunities, a move might suit both parties.

Enter Collingwood, who are imminently entering an era that will see Scott Pendlebury and Steele Sidebottom as retired champions of the game (potentially at the end of 2026), while Tom Mitchell's body is a cause for concern.

Thus, opening multiple roles in Craig McRae's midfield, who will be built around supporting superstar Nick Daicos.

Ed Allan has shown glimpses, while Ned Long's emergence, and the inclusion of Harry Perryman have strengthened the on-ball brigade.

But the 23-year-old Lion could be another piece to the Pies' puzzle.

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