Injured Carlton defender Nic Newman is set for a new role at the club in 2025 as he recovers from a serious knee injury.
Newman - who ruptured his patella tendon in January - is expected to be seen along the club's interchange bench, assisting with communication between the coaches' box and players.
The move comes as coach Michael Voss is understood to return upstairs to the coaches' box following three seasons predominantly along the boundary line.
Newman is keeping a window of hope open for a return later in the 2025 season, but up until that point, will do everything he can to help his side.
"(I'm) just trying to be another voice on the bench that players can come to and speak to, and hopefully I can contribute in some small way," Newman said on Fox Footy during Friday night's practice match against GWS.
"I'm a bit calmer on the bench than I am on the field.
"Unfortunately I'm been through this before on my right knee, so I've got somewhat of an idea of what to expect... But my rehab's going well."
It is the same position as Blues veteran Sam Docherty took on last season following his knee reconstruction in Opening Round before his finals return.
Carlton kicks off their 2025 campaign with a return to the traditional Thursday night clash with Richmond in Round 1 at the MCG, opting out of the AFL's Opening Round.
The Blues will be without star forward Charlie Curnow (knee) as well as ruckman Marc Pittonet (calf) for the opening weeks of the season.
Sam Walsh is expected to be available for the Tigers clash while Alex Cincotta (hip) and Newman are both eyeing returns later in the season.
Unfortunately, Jagga Smith (knee) has been ruled out for his debut campaign, which resulted in the signing of VFL star Will White.
