Carlton midfielder Ed Curnow has announced his retirement, effective at the end of the 2023 season.

Initially drafted in the 2008 Rookie Draft to the Adelaide Crows, Curnow spent the year in the SANFL for Glenelg before ultimately being delisted at the end of that season.

In 2011, the then 22-year-old Curnow entered the Rookie Draft once more. He was selected by the Blues with Pick 18. The 33-year-old has been a faithful servant of the Blues, playing an impressive 221 games so far in his career.

Curnow has been a consistent performer for the Blues during his tenure. Averaging over 18 games a season over his 12 years at Carlton, his work rate and club-first mentality made him a fan-favourite. His best individual year came in 2018 when he averaged an impressive 25 disposals a game in 21 games.

The veteran was a shining light in the Blues' dark days throughout the 2010s. Unfortunately for Curnow, his career has come to an end as the Blues are on the rise. The club had been down and out for most of his career, but his heart and determination were key attributes that made him a loved figure at the club.

Throughout this season, Curnow has played 17 games averaging a career-low 13 possessions a game. The veteran has played a number of games as the starting substitute and has come on to provide an instant impact for his side.

The older Curnow brother will be looking to play his third final as the Blues make their first finals appearance in a decade. Carlton will be taking on the Swans at the MCG next Friday night in front of a sold-out crowd.