North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson has all but ruled out a move for Collingwood and premiership hero Jeremy Howe, bluntly suggesting the Kangaroos cannot continue to lean on aging star players as they rebuild.
Howe, at 35, remains one of the AFL’s most spectacular defenders—renowned for his aerial flair and highlight‑reel marks—but Clarkson made clear that North won’t be prioritising veterans like him in the next wave of list improvement. Clarkson noted that although Howe would bring experience and match readiness, North has already pursued a similar strategy and must avoid becoming too old and stunted in its development.
Past recruiting strategy: experience first, but not again
Clarkson pointed to North’s recent acquisitions—Luke Parker (former Swans captain), Jack Darling (ex‑WCE forward) and Caleb Daniel (ex‑Bulldogs defender)—all seasoned pros in their late 20s to early 30s who brought immediate structure, fitness and leadership stability. That batch, in Clarkson’s view, provided exactly the “sturdiness” needed to guide North’s younger core through a transition.
But he was emphatic that replicating that same approach again would risk tipping the age profile too far. It’s a delicate balance—bring enough experience to set standards, yet still prioritise youth and long‑term growth.
Clarkson’s mindset: rebuild responsibly, not chase quick fixes
Clarkson has long emphasised youth development, aligning with North’s endured rebuild. He made it clear: any player considered must fit within the club’s long‑term vision.
He suggested that while Jeremy Howe may well be a content Collingwood figure, chasing acquisitions of that ilk again would compromise North’s progress toward a younger, more dynamic list. Clarkson believes the club now needs to focus on building from inside, elevating its developing talent pool, rather than repeatedly hunting in the twilight of veteran careers.
Howe’s situation adds fuel to speculation
With Howe yet to be offered a Collingwood contract for next season, speculation has swirled that he could consider a one‑final‑year deal elsewhere. The drama of no offer from the reigning premiers, coupled with his elite marking ability, made him a logical target—particularly for clubs like North seeking immediate improvement.
However, Clarkson subtly downplayed the possibility, indicating North’s recruit pipeline and rebuild process won’t stall for older stars, even those with Howe’s pedigree.
What this reveals about North’s wider recruitment philosophy
Clarkson’s comments underline a shift: North Melbourne is no longer chasing veteran profile depth, but rather seeking a sustainable blend. The club remains open to talent recruitment, but wants to avoid a list aging too quickly. They are more likely to explore players in their mid‑20s who still bring league experience but offer several seasons ahead.
Essentially, given their young list, Clarkson wants to avoid creating a logjam of heads around potential retiring age—refocusing instead on youth elevation and nurturing home‑grown leaders.
Consequences for list management and club trajectory
- Jeremy Howe realistically off the table, unless circumstances dramatically shift.
- North’s past veterans (Parker, Darling, Daniel) were bought with intention; repeating the move would contradict their stated path.
- Clarkson’s rebuilding message: develop a base, support key young core, and introduce leaders selectively—even if older—to shape direction.
- The club’s recruitment strategy must now pivot to: “experience without dragging the profile’s average age upward”.
Final takeaway
Clarkson’s rejection of a Jeremy Howe pursuit is highly revealing. It signals a departure from chasing high‑profile veterans whose best days lie behind them. Instead, North Melbourne intends to make selective, forward‑looking recruitments—players who bolster culture and leadership while remaining part of their future, not just short‑term fillers. Clarkson recognizes the fine line between stability and stagnation—and right now, North wants trajectory, not nostalgia.
In summary, Clarkson’s remarks underscore the Kangaroos’ renewed commitment to sustainable rebuilding: a careful integration of youth, supported by smart experienced additions—but no repeat of chasing 35‑year‑olds just for immediate gain. That decision makes a Jeremy Howe move almost inconceivable under the current strategy.
