Recent Gold Coast Suns draftee Leo Lombard will miss the beginning of the 2025 season with a shoulder injury.

The youngster suffered the injury during a match simulation against Brisbane on Thursday night, coming to blows with Lions' midfielder Levi Ashcroft.

The 18-year-old left the field clutching his shoulder and was subsequently sent for scans following the collision.

Suns' physiotherapist Lindsay Bull said they will determine this week if surgery is also required.

"After receiving the scan results, Leo will consult with a specialist this week to determine the best course of action for his injury," said Bull.

"We will prioritise Leo's long-term health so expect he will miss some time as he rehabilitates his shoulder, with a timeline to be determined in due course."

Taken by the Suns with the ninth pick in the 2024 draft, Lombard impressed during early pre-season matches and was expected to be in the frame for opening road action.

An explosive midfielder, Lombard has been a regular for the Gold Coast Suns VFL side since debuting at the age of 16 in 2023, drawing comparisons to swans gun Chad Warner.

The Suns will kick off their AFL season without Lombard on March 8, at home against Essendon. 

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