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Essendon's Nic Martin Out for 2026 After Further Knee Surgery

Essendon frames the decision as a long-term call, with a plan to have him fully fit for the 2027 pre-season.

Overview

  • Scans after a training slip confirmed fresh damage to Martin’s reconstructed right knee, leading to another operation on Thursday.
  • The 24-year-old originally ruptured his ACL in July against Richmond during the 2025 season.
  • Martin says he feels good post-surgery and will commit to a structured rehabilitation aimed at a 2027 pre-season return.
  • Football boss Daniel McPherson says the additional surgery prioritizes the best long-term outcome and that Martin will continue to contribute in a leadership capacity next year.
  • First-round draftee Sullivan Robey is managing a back issue with reduced training loads, and defender Jordan Ridley reportedly strained a hamstring.