Bombers Mid-Season Draft choice Jaiden Hunter was sent for full scans on Wednesday for a plaguing back complaint, with those scans, unfortunately, revealing a fracture.
The fracture means Hunter could potentially be sidelined for the remainder of the season.
Hunter, a forward by trade, was Essendon's Pick 9 in May's mid-season selection festivities, having shown plenty of promise in the WAFL in the lead-up to draft day last month.
We can confirm mid-season recruit Jaiden Hunter was sent for scans today for a full assessment on a recurring back complaint.
— Essendon FC (@essendonfc) June 21, 2023
The 21-year-old had already strutted his stuff in the VFL, kicking four goals in a recent outing against Carlton before succumbing to injury.
However, the back ailment, supposedly suffered before the Bombers' drafting of him despite having received medical clearance, has dampened Hunter's year.
The youngster hadn't had much of a look-in at selection since arriving at Tullamarine, with this latest setback likely to further raise doubt about a 2023 AFL debut.
Get set for the footy with the FREE Zero Hanger 2026 AFL Season Guide! Packed with 150+ pages of player profiles, team previews, insights and analysis, the 2026 AFL Season Guide is built for fans who want the full picture. Download your free Season Guide HERE.
