Adelaide has suffered a blow in its clash with Hawthorn, with star forward Josh Jenkins suffering what looks to be a serious rib injury early in the first quarter.

Jenkins was hit in the ribs by Hawthorn debutant Teia Miles while attempting to take a mark just outside Adelaide's forward 50.

Jenkins immediately fell to the ground clutching his rib cage in serious pain and had to be helped to his feet and from the ground.

He was taken straight to the change rooms, before being transported to hospital just prior to quarter time.

The 28-year-old looks to have at a minimum, a broken rib and potentially even a collapsed lung.

Jenkins booted three goals in last week's big win over Greater Western Sydney.

Watch the incident below: