GWS midfielder Josh Kelly will be a close watch throughout the off-season as he recovers from a persistent hip issue that could wipe out his entire 2026 campaign, according to SEN's Sam Edmund.
Kelly played 15 games in 2025, including the elimination final loss to Hawthorn, but dealt with ongoing soft-tissue problems as well as a nagging hip injury.
The 30-year-old will be treated cautiously over the warmer months, but there is a possibility that his recovery may not be as straightforward as previously thought.
"GWS star Josh Kelly could miss the entire 2026 season under a worst-case scenario relating to his ongoing hip problems," Edmund wrote.
"Kelly met with a specialist yesterday after he was forced to manage his loads for much of the second half of the season, and his immediate playing future hangs in the balance.
"There's hope the midfielder can undergo a procedure that, like last off-season, has him back without missing too much of the pre-season.
GWS star Josh Kelly could miss the entire 2026 season under a worst-case scenario relating to his ongoing hip problems.
Kelly met with a specialist yesterday after he was forced to manage his loads for much of the second half of the season and his immediate playing future hangs…
— Sam Edmund (@Sammy__Edmund) September 17, 2025
"But GWS have also been made aware of a far more serious outcome in which Kelly would need major surgery that would wipe out his 2026 campaign."
It is understood that Kelly has lost a lot of power, which hindered his output throughout the season, despite his incredible performance as the substitute against the Hawks.
Brent Daniels and Jack Buckley will also be watched closely in the off-season as they attempt to put their nagging injury woes behind them.
