Western Bulldogs midfielder James Harmes has been granted personal leave from the club as he works through challenges.

Harmes was spotted at the Whitten Oval up until Christmas during the pre-season sessions, but hasn't returned in the new year.

There is no current timeline on the former Demon's return to the Bulldogs, and he is unlikely to feature early in 2026.

Harmes will be the third player to take an extended break, joining Bobby Hill (Collingwood) and Tyson Stengle (Geelong) in 2026.

Harmes' contract is set to expire at the end of the season.

He played 152 games for Melbourne over 10 years before crossing to the Bulldogs at the end of 2023. He has added 22 matches in the tri colours.

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