Brisbane Lions defender Marcus Adams forced into retirement by concussion

A fourth AFL player this year has been forced into retirement by concussion issues that remain a growing concern.

Marcus Adams has retired. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

Brisbane Lions defender Marcus Adams has become the fourth AFL player in 2023 to be forced into retirement after an ongoing battle with concussion symptoms.

The 30-year-old played 73 games over seven seasons in the AFL with the Lions and Western Bulldogs but none in 2023, having been placed on the club’s inactive list in January.

Adams sustained a delayed concussion following a match against Carlton in round 21 last season and following consultation with the club’s medical team and AFL medical specialists, he made the decision to end his career.

Adams told his teammates at training this week and said no part of him “really wants to let it go”.

“I know it’s the right decision for me,” he said.

“The whole journey is something I will remember very fondly and even though it hasn’t ended how I would have liked, it has been the best experience I could have hoped for.

“Thanks to my family, friends and the whole footy club for the support over the past 12 months.”

Our reliable warrior has hung up the boots ❤️

73 games full of impact and grit. All the best with the next chapter Marcus. Always a Lion 🦁

Read: https://t.co/FDKQeaUsZ5pic.twitter.com/rmFJEd7zrl

— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) August 30, 2023

Lions coach Chris Fagan said the club would play with Adams firmly in their thoughts during the finals campaign.

“I’m so sad that it’s come to this,” the coach said.

“When you look back on your career, what you will be able to say is you got the best out of yourself.

“We would still love to have you playing with us and for us. We won’t have that.

“When we run out for the finals mate, we run out with you in our heads and we’ll give it our best shot.

“Thanks for all you’ve done.”

Marcus Adams was concussed in round 21, 2022. Picture: Russell Freeman/AFL Photos via Getty Images

Brisbane football boss, Danny Daly said the health and wellbeing of all players and staff “is always our main priority”.

“While it has been a challenging 12 months for Marcus, we have all admired the way he has handled the situation which speaks volumes of him as a person and professional,” he said.

“All we want for Marcus is for him to be fit, healthy and happy.”

The retirement of Adams comes after former No.1 draft pick Paddy McCartin, Adelaide’s Paul Seedsman and Hawthorn ruckman Max Lynch all called time after ongoing issues with concussion. Seedsman also was unable to play a single game in 2023.