Young Melbourne player Aaron Nietschke will miss the 2019 season after rupturing his ACL at training.
The 18-year-old was taken with pick 53 in the 2018 National Draft.
Melbourne General Manager of Football Operations broke down the situation.
"Unfortunately, scans have confirmed that Aaron has ruptured his ACL,” Mahoney told Melbourne Media.
"He will meet with the surgeon today, with the most likely option being that he will miss the year.
“This is obviously a tough time for Aaron – as a club we will ensure we put the best support around him during the rehab process, like we do for all our players.”