Richmond youngster Josh Smillie will not be joining his fellow draftees in making his debut this year after the club officially drew a line through him for the season.
Smillie's maiden season in the AFL has been marred by injury issues, with the latest setback being a quad injury.
The Pick 7 in the 2024 draft is eyeing a return to the VFL side as they set themselves for a finals campaign. They currently sit eighth with two home and away season clashes to go.
Along with Smillie, the Tigers drafted Sam Lalor, Taj Hotton, Jonty Faull, Luke Trainor, Harry Armstrong, Thomas Sims and Jasper Alger, who have all featured in Adem Yze's team.
"It is only the beginning of what will be a long journey for Josh at the elite level, and because of this, we have not taken any risks with him this year," Richmond Executive GM of Football Performance Tim Livingstone said.
"We are preparing Josh's body to be a long-term AFL player and cope with the rigours of being a professional athlete.
"While it is frustrating for him and us that he has not been able to play more football this year, the reality is his body has not responded to increases in the volume and intensity of training required to perform at senior level.
"Josh has put in a lot of hard work this year and will have learned a lot to help best prepare him for 2026 and beyond.
"We are looking forward to seeing Josh out on the field next season and are both excited and confident about what he will be able to do, such is his talent."
Richmond has defied the odds set against them by winning five games in 2025 despite holding one of the youngest lists in the competition.
The Tigers will round out their season with clashes against St Kilda, North Melbourne and Geelong.
