Sydney will treat Tom McCartin's latest concussion like any other head knock, despite his long history with the concerning injury.
McCartin missed nine games in 2023 due to complications following a concussion in Round 4 of the year, while a separate four matches last year were missed were caused by another hit to the head.
The Swans defender copped an errant arm from St Kilda's Max Heath, and drew blood under his right eye. McCartin came from the ground immediately, and the Swans left him there, as coach Dean Cox could be seen speaking to him.
Tom McCartin came from the ground after this incident involving Max Heath.#AFLSaintsSwans pic.twitter.com/shAniNkB9x
— AFL (@AFL) July 13, 2025
However, since the weekend, Cox revealed that McCartin had been progressing well, and had been in the club, ticking the legs over.
"He's been really good," Cox said.
"From my point of view, I spoke to him as soon as it happened that night. Obviously, the next morning (as well). He did a bike yesterday. He's doing one just before. He hasn't had any more symptoms. That's the pleasing thing."
McCartin will miss Saturday's clash with North Melbourne as he remains in concussion protocols, but his coach stopped short of saying he'd be available for the Sydney Derby against GWS the following week.
"Day by day," Cox continued.
"We just follow the protocols. He does something, ticks it off. Does something, ticks it off. Has no symptoms, we keep progressing.
"I think that's all you can do. That would be the same if Isaac Heeney was in the protocols. We want them to progress as quickly and as safely as possible, no matter the person."
Cox also dismissed any retirement fears amid an increase in players being forced to hang up the boots, with West Coast champion Jeremy McGovern the latest.
A timely return from Dane Rampe could be the replacement for McCartin on Saturday, although he will be tested during Thursday's training session.
Rampe missed the past two weeks with a calf issue, but is expected to be available for selection.
Fellow experienced head Robbie Fox is also in line to put his hand up for selection after a long lay-off, with his last AFL outing in the 2024 decider against Brisbane.
Fox will need to get through training, but will likely feature in the VFL on Saturday.
