Magpies defender Nathan Murphy suffered a suspected concussion during Saturday's Grand Final between Collingwood and the Brisbane Lions.

The incident, which occurred late in the first quarter, saw Murphy collected by Brisbane's Lincoln McCarthy as he sought to win the ball in the Lions forward line.

Murphy stayed down after the incident, before being assisted from the ground and taken down into Brisbane's rooms with trainers.

A free kick was paid against McCarthy for the incident, though Murphy was unable to take his kick.

Pies midfielder Patrick Lipinski, Collingwood's tactical substitute, was inserted into the action just after quarter-time after Murphy was officially ruled out of the game by the Magpies' team of doctors.

McCarthy, who appeared to be making an attempt at winning the ball, may still have a Match Review Officer case to answer following the game.

Murphy has a history of concussion concerns, making this a particularly sensitive case for the Magpies. The defender was noticeably distraught upon hearing he wouldn't be taking any further part in Saturday's decider.