Injury news: Nik Cox update

Nik Cox will miss the remainder of the 2025 AFL season after consultation with the league's Concussion Panel last month.

The panel provided a clear return-to-play pathway, with one key recommendation being for Cox to step away from football for the remainder of the year, one that both he and the Club have accepted.

Cox expressed his gratitude and determination following the panel findings.

“After meeting with an independent AFL medical panel regarding my concussion history, I’m pleased that I’ve been cleared to continue my playing career," Cox said.

"Whilst I'm disappointed that I won’t return to the field for the remainder of the 2025 season, this time away from the game will be used to focus fully on my health, recovery, and building the strongest possible foundation heading into pre-season.

“I’m incredibly grateful to my Club, teammates, medical staff, and everyone who has supported me through what’s been a challenging and uncertain period. I’ve learned a lot about myself over the past few months, and I’m more motivated than ever to get back to doing what I love.

"My focus now is on continuing to work closely with specialists and the club to make sure I’m in the best place physically and mentally to return to football.”

The Club’s priority remains on supporting Cox through this period.

“Nik has endured a really difficult period with his ongoing concussion symptoms, and we’re fully committed to helping him recover both physically and mentally,” Essendon’s GM – AFL Daniel McPherson said.

“After meeting with the panel in June, the recommendation for Nik to step away from footy for the remainder of this year was one that we accepted with the view to giving him the best chance of getting back to his best when he returns, both on and off-field.

“Nik will have our full support as we navigate with him, the next steps in his recovery.”

Click here to read article