Nathan Murphy: Collingwood premiership defender forced into retirement over concussion

Nathan Murphy: Collingwood premiership defender forced into retirement over concussion

Premiership-winning Collingwood defender Nathan Murphy has been forced into retirement amid ongoing concussion issues.

Murphy hasn’t played since the 2023 grand final, having been substituted out at quarter time after copping a knock early on in Collingwood’s dramatic win over the Lions.

It was reportedly the 10th concussion of the 24-year-old’s sporting career.

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Murphy had taken a break from the club over pre-season as he dealt with the ongoing physical and mental impact of the head knocks, but he’s now decided to finish up completely.

The backman had signed a one-year extension with the club over the summer.

Because he has medically retired, Murphy will be paid out the full amount remaining on his deal, although it will not count against Collingwood’s salary cap.

Why did Nathan Murphy retire?

“I feel it is the right time and the right decision for me to hang up my footy boots,” Murphy said.

“I love my football, but my priority is on my future and ensuring I live a full and healthy life.

“I’d like to thank the club, coaches, teammates, staff and the Magpie Army for all their support throughout my playing career and for allowing me the opportunity to live out my childhood dream of playing AFL.

“To my family and friends, I couldn’t have gone through this journey without your continued love and support which I am so grateful for.”

Taken with pick 39 in the 2017 Draft, Murphy finishes with 57 senior appearances to his name, including 24 in the flag-winning 2023 season.

Collingwood football manager Brendon Bolton spoke about Murphy’s contribution to the club.

“On behalf of everyone at Collingwood, we thank Nathan for his contribution to our Club and commend him on the maturity he has shown throughout this period,” Bolton said.

“Nathan will be remembered as a player who showed sheer courage on the field.

“His one-on-one efforts and ability to intercept and spoil were second to none.

“In the backline, Murph had an outstanding ability to read the game, lead, and direct teammates on field.

“A fun and light-hearted character, Nathan also showed great generosity which is what made him a much-loved member of our club.

“Away from the field, he made significant contributions within the community space from community coaching to the working in his café.

“Having battled several injuries throughout his career, a credit goes to Nathan’s resilience and perseverance to come back and perform to a high standard on many occasions.

“While we will miss ‘Murph’, he’ll forever be a part of Collingwood’s history as a 2023 premiership player.”

Murphy’s decision follows that of Angus Brayshaw earlier this year, who himself retired after suffering a concussion in last year’s finals series.

At just 28, Brayshaw called time on his 167-game career, which saw him suffer around six major concussions.