### *“De Goey Turns Down Jaw‑Dropping \$5 Million Godfather Offer—Chooses Collingwood Loyalty Over Cash”*
Jordan de Goey has turned heads by *boldly rejecting* a staggering **\$5 million, five‑year “godfather” offer** from North Melbourne—opting instead to recommit his future to Collingwood. For many, it would’ve been a no‑brainer: a life‑changing sum of money, a fresh start, and new surroundings. But for de Goey? It was all about people, passion, and proving that loyalty still carries weight in professional sport.
The saga dates back to early 2019 when North Melbourne’s management dangled that lucrative deal in front of the 22‑year‑old forward. De Goey recounted the moment on the Jock & Journo podcast: his manager casually mentioned, “North have upped their offer, it’s \$1 million a year for five years.” As the full extent of the offer sank in, de Goey was stunned—but not swayed ([FOX SPORTS][1], [Nine][2]).
Instead of being seduced by the lure of cold, hard cash, de Goey chose *Collingwood*—a club where he had built trusting relationships, felt supported, and genuinely enjoyed being a part of the culture. He ultimately signed a modest two‑year extension with the Magpies—a decision driven by heart over headline‑making dollar figures ([SBS][3], [7NEWS][4]).
Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley, ever mindful of the human element in deals, hinted that these off‑field connections would be the deciding factor, even though the club couldn’t match the financial impulse from North Melbourne ([SBS][5]).
That single episode is more than just a footnote in AFL trade chatter—it’s a window into de Goey’s character. Yes, he’s a dynamic athlete capable of lighting up the scoreboard, but he’s also someone who values camaraderie, club culture, and loyalty. At just 22, the choice to walk away from *more money* for *better relationships* marks a maturity not always seen in elite athletes.
It’s a modern twist on an old-school ethos: that money isn’t everything, and winning isn’t limited to goals on the scoreboard. Staying at Collingwood allowed de Goey to grow within a familiar environment, surrounded by teammates and mentors he trusts.
For fans, this was a reaffirmation of what makes footy special—moments when players choose *loyalty* over *luxury*. For clubs, it’s a reminder that money, while powerful, isn’t the only currency in sport. For aspiring players, it’s a lesson worth noting: sometimes, the place you belong isn’t the one offering the biggest paycheck.
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By weaving together de Goey’s mindset, the numbers, and the context, this piece speaks to the heart—where decisions are bigger than dollars, and where belonging can outshine banknotes.
