Collingwood is pleased to announce defender Nathan Murphy and forward Ash Johnson have signed fresh deals with the Club.

Murphy has put pen to paper signing a two-year contract extension to continue in the black and white until the end of 2024, while Johnson has been rewarded with a one-year extension to remain a Magpie until at least the end of 2023.

Drafted at Pick 39 in the 2017 AFL Draft, Murphy has played 26 AFL games.

The 22-year-old has made great progress over the past two seasons running out for 15 games in 2021 and nine so far in 2022.

Known for his courageous impact down back, Murphy is averaging 6.3 intercept possessions and 5.7 spoils this season.

Hailing from Halls Creek in Western Australia, Johnson was drafted to the Pies at Pick 3 in the 2021 Mid-Season Rookie Draft.

A proud Gija / Jaru / Bunuba man, Johnson became Collingwood’s 18^th Aboriginal player to make their debut for the Club running out for his first AFL game in Round 18 this season with a win against the Adelaide Crows.

In just his second game at the senior level, the 24-year-old played a pivotal role in the Pies’ Round 19 win over Essendon having booted three goals.

Johnson’s marking ability, as well as his pressure in the forward half, have impressed.

Before being elevated into the Pies’ senior side, Johnson spent time refining his football craft in the Club’s VFL program where he kicked eight goals across his seven games in 2022.

As the brother of Adelaide Crows’ Shane McAdam and Fremantle’s Eric Benning, the three are the only trio of brothers currently in the AFL. 

Collingwood General Manager of Football Graham Wright said he was pleased to re-sign the pair.  

“We’re pleased to reward both Nathan and Ash with further opportunity at the Club – they are both on-field talents and off the field they are outstanding individuals and valued teammates,” Wright said.

“Nathan has shown great persistence despite several injury setbacks through the early stages of his career.

“He’s shown dedication and commitment to his development which has allowed him to improve his game particularly regarding his one-percenters this season. Not only does he offer great versatility across the ground, but his courageous defence makes him exciting to watch.

“Since joining us last year, Ash has worked hard to finetune his craft and he made great progress through his time with our VFL program, rewarded at AFL-level over the last two rounds.

“We are excited about both Nathan and Ash’s futures, and we look forward to seeing their progress and further development as part of our AFL program.”