Concerns surrounding the playing future of Hawthorn ruckman Max Lynch have grown after the luckless Hawk suffered the ninth concussion of his career in Round 6.

Lynch has battled head trauma across his career in the AFL, with his time in the brown and gold getting off to a particularly difficult start after suffering a concussion in his club debut at the start of last year against North Melbourne.

The 24-year-old would sustain another head knock just five games in his return to the field in a Round 10 clash with Brisbane, with Lynch not featuring at AFL level again until the final game of the 2022 season.

Lynch would make his first appearance this year against Adelaide over the weekend in Tasmania, with his evening cut short after undergoing a concussion test in the opening half of the match.

The latest concern for Lynch arose without an incident from the match being identified as the cause of the concussion, which is understood to be the ninth of Lynch's career, according toย AFL.com.ai.

Speaking to the publication, Hawthorn football boss Rob McCartney said the club is taking a cautious approach with Lynch's recovery.

"In the game against Adelaide Max was assessed for concussion and, given his history, our doctors opted to take a conservative approach and rule him out of the game," McCartney said.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 20: Tristan Xerri of the Kangaroos and Max Lynch of the Hawks compete for the ball during the 2022 AFL Round 01 match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the North Melbourne Kangaroos at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 20, 2022 In Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"He is a valued member of our club, but more than anything we just want to ensure his wellbeing and safety are front of mind."

It is understood that Lynch returned to the club on Tuesday and is still battling with concussion symptoms.

Concussion has continued to take a toll on players across the competition, with Sydney defender Paddy McCartin currently sidelined after suffering the 10th concussion of his career this season.

Adelaide wingman Paul Seedsman hasn't played since the 2021 season after suffering a concussion at training, while Brisbane defender Marcus Adams also faces an uncertain future following a head knock against Carlton in August last year.

Both Seedsman and Adams have been placed on their respective clubs' inactive lists for the 2023 season.

Lynch played three games for Collingwood across five seasons at Olympic Park before requesting a trade to Hawthorn at the end of the 2021 season.