The 24-year-old is facing an uncertain future.
Collingwood midfield-forward Josh Carmichael has reportedly been referred to the AFL’s medical concussion panel as he continues to deal with ongoing symptoms from a recent head knock.
Carmichael has not played since early May when the Magpies’ VFL side faced Southport in Queensland, with the 24-year-old since sidelined due to concussion after dealing with delayed symptoms following an incident during the pre-season.
In the club’s latest update on Carmichael, Collingwood stated on Monday evening that the 2022 Mid-Season Draft acquisition was continuing through concussion protocols.
“Josh Carmichael continues to work through the AFL’s concussion protocols and continues to be supported by the Club and AFL medical teams,” a club update read.
SEN’s Sam Edmund revealed earlier this month that Carmichael was facing an uncertain future due to his ongoing battle, and has now confirmed the former West Adelaide star has been referred to the league’s concussion panel to investigate his health.
The AFL has already seen a trio of players call time on their careers prematurely due to concussion, with Carmichael’s teammate Nathan Murphy announcing his retirement in April following a head knock suffered in last year’s grand final.
Melbourne premiership player Angus Brayshaw retired before the start of the home and away season, while first-year Bulldog Aiden O’Driscoll was forced to retire just months into his AFL career after a serious head knock suffered over the pre-season.
Carmichael joined the Magpies midway through the 2022 season after a stellar start to his SANFL season, with an AFL debut coming by July that year.
The attacking-minded onballer made a further six appearances that year, including a role in Collingwood’s semi-final win over Fremantle.
Carmichael returned to Craig McRae’s side for their Round 3 clash with Richmond last year for what would be his only appearance of 2023, with the fringe Magpie spending most of the season in the VFL.
He played the first six games of the season at the state league level this year before experiencing further concussion concerns.