Collingwood and Melbourne have been linked to Ollie Lord, according to AFL.com’s Josh Gabelich, as both teams have clear gaps in their tall forward lineup. At 22, Lord has shown potential in his 19-game career, but injuries have hampered his progress, with a fractured tibia and knee issues sidelining him for most of 2024.

Despite being contracted for two more seasons at Port Adelaide and expressing no desire to leave, Lord may face tough competition for a regular spot, particularly with the likely arrival of Jack Lukosius and the presence of Mitch Georgiades and Todd Marshall.

Charlie Dixon’s retirement initially seemed to offer Lord a clear opportunity, but Lukosius’ potential inclusion changes the dynamic. With just 21 career goals, Lord has yet to fully establish his value, although his four-goal performance in a 2023 qualifying final hints at his potential as he looks ahead to 2025 after missing most of this season.

Port Adelaide will likely aim to retain Lord for at least another season, hoping he can develop his game and boost his value. With more experience, he could surpass his competition at Alberton or attract a lucrative offer from another club.

In any case, Lord’s situation adds complexity to Port Adelaide’s busy off-season, which involves departures like Dan Houston, Ivan Soldo, and Charlie Dixon, while they look to bring in Lukosius, Harry Perryman, Isaac Cumming, and Joe Richards.

The club enters the National Draft without a first-round pick, holding only selections 36 and 54.