Many players go on to have successful and long careers in the AFL, but a portion of players have their careers cut short. Some are star players who just didn't get a good crack to show what they have, or succumbed to the nasty history and role that injuries play in the game.
We take a look at 10 of the most notable names who had their promising careers end prematurely.
Have some other players in mind? Share in the comments below.
2. Ryan Fitzgerald
Known for his television and radio career, appearing on the likes of Big Brother, Nova FM and The Front Bar, Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald was once a promising AFL player.
A tall forward drafted by Sydney in 1998 at pick 4, Fitzy didn't debut until 2000 due to a shoulder injury.
On debut, he kicked five goals and looked to be set for a successful career. In 2001, Fitzy injured his knee, requiring a reconstruction.
He was traded to Adelaide in 2002 and managed just eight games before another ACL injury, and soon his career came to an abrupt end.
Fitzy retired with just 18 games under his belt across four seasons.
