St Kilda veteran Paddy Ryder could miss the remainder of the 2022 season after suffering a calf injury on Friday night, sparking fears he may have played his last game in the AFL.
Ryder was subbed out of his side's 28-point loss to the Bulldogs due to the setback, prompting concerns his campaign could be concluded prematurely.
St Kilda confirmed on Monday evening that Ryder will miss the next 4-6 weeks, with the Saint tall's season potentially hinging on their finals chances.
With St Kilda seeing their finals hopes wane with each recent loss, the Moorabbin club may need to book a spot in September to see Ryder play again this year, an outcome now unlikely.
The senior ruckman has been a pivotal piece for the Saints this season, playing 12 of a possible 17 matches.
The former Essendon and Port Adelaide tall missed four of the opening six rounds of the season due to injury and suspension.
Ryder has played 281 games in the AFL, beginning his career with the Bombers where he made his debut in 2006.
Wingman Dan McKenzie joins Ryder on the sidelines with a calf issue and will miss at least the next month, while Hunter Clark is a test to face West Coast in Round 19 after recovering from a broken nose.
