There are plenty of talking points after the AFL's wildcard weekend, with one of the biggest being the announcement Scott Pendlebury would depart Collingwood and join Gold Coast likely on a playing-then-coaching deal.
Let's get to this week's overreactions column, where we judge the biggest takeaways as legitimate or irrational.
Scott Pendlebury's legacy will be tarnished by not being a one-club player
The football world was left stunned on Sunday morning when news broke that Collingwood champion Scott Pendlebury would be departing the club and continuing his playing career at Gold Coast.
It's understood the 442-game veteran was eager to remain at the Magpies but a contract extension reportedly never arrived, leading Pendlebury to explore other playing opportunities for 2027. With his move to the Suns now all but confirmed, he is no longer set to be the one-club player many believed he would retire as, and that's led to questions and concerns about his legacy.
Verdict: Overreaction
So what if Pendlebury isn't a one-club player. Sam Mitchell isn't a one-club player and nobody would associate him with any club other than Hawthorn. Luke Hodge's name carries the same weight around Hawthorn even though he finished his career at the Lions. It's also easy to forget that Nathan Buckley once upon a time played for Brisbane.
Pendlebury has built up enough credits over his 20-year career where his legendary footballing legacy is secure. There's pretty much nothing he can do that would taint his image as one of the most revered and respected players in league history.
It's 2026, and the long-held concept of player loyalty isn't the same as it once was. With football being the business it is, loyalty can often be a one-way street. It's always a savvy and responsible move for players to look after their futures.
Extending his career at another club certainly shouldn't be viewed as a negative. In fact, who's to say taking this path won't ultimately enhance his legacy?
What would a premiership at the Suns mean for Pendlebury? It has to add to his story in a positive way. I'm not saying that's happening next season but it proves his legacy is still being written.
-- Jake Michaels
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