Essendon’s depleted tall stocks dwindle with Harrison Jones sidelined by back ailment

Essendon’s tall stocks continue to take hits, with Harrison Jones suffering a setback. DANIEL CHERNY has the latest details.

Harrison Jones’ short-term playing future is in doubt. Picture: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images

Essendon forward Harrison Jones’ short-term playing future is in doubt as the Bombers investigate a back injury suffered by the young tall.

Jones, 22, was not named in either the AFL or VFL side this weekend, a result of a setback to the injury-riddled forward who missed considerable football at the end of 2021 and 2022 with other issues.

While Jones trained during the week, it’s understood he pulled up with discomfort on Friday. With the Bombers away to Port Adelaide on Sunday, Jones is set to be assessed by medicos this week however the club is bracing for what could be a substantial period of time on the sidelines.

Taken in the 2019 draft, Jones has kicked 35 goals from 32 AFL games, but started 2023 modestly, dropped after just two goals in the opening five.

Harrison Jones was dropped after a slow start to the season. Picture: Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images

However his injury stretches Essendon’s tall stocks further, with spearhead and reigning Crichton Medallist Peter Wright out until the back half of the season with a shoulder injury and tall backs James Stewart and Jayden Laverde both sidelined as well.

In better news for the Bombers, youngsters Elijah Tsatas and Nik Cox are both progressing from long-term injuries.

“It’s pleasing to have both Nik and Elijah continue their steady recovery from long-term injuries,” Essendon football performance chief Daniel McPherson said on the club’s website during the week.

“They’ll continue to gradually build on their fitness and barring any unexpected hiccups, both will be looking to integrate into our main training group over the coming weeks.”

Pressure forward Matt Guelfi is also aiming for a round 11 return as he makes his way back from a hamstring injury.

Originally published as Essendon’s depleted tall stocks dwindle with Harrison Jones sidelined by back ailment