Achilles Tendinopathy(ATTS)

Timeline

1. 1 Jan

   Occurred

   Achilles soreness (December 2025) - worse than expected, complicated by flared back issue (Feb 2026). Has barely trained across summer. Managing with extra cautious approach. Significantly delayed start to season expected.

   21 fixtures missed
2. 8 Feb

   Progress update

3. 4 Mar

   Reassessment

   Jack Viney | Achilles | 8 weeks | Ruled out until at least round 8

   Return revised: 1 Apr → 2 May

   AFL.com.au
4. 5 May

   Progress update

   Jack has progressed to light running duties as we continue to build his calf and Achilles strength.

   Melbourne FC
5. 13 May

   Reassessment

   Jack Viney Achilles — light running duties, TBC

   Melbourne FC
6. 24 May

   Setback

   Team played Round 11 — player absent from lineups. Lineup-confirmed revert (Phase 1.82E ad-hoc).

7. 4 June

   Reassessment

   Expected return 31 May passed without a return — player absent from R11/R12 lineups; latest club update has him on light running duties with no firm date. Return date cleared to TBC.

8. 7 July

   Progress update

   Reassessment

   NULL forecast replaced with a mid-August horizon; Achilles timeline remains unconfirmed. Jack Viney | Achilles | TBC

   Return now expected 15 Aug

   AFL.com.au
9. 16 Aug

   Progress update

   Named for Casey Demons in VFL Round 21 (season debut flagged by the club) — VFL stats page not yet published, so the appearance is unconfirmed. Earliest AFL return now Round 24 v Western Bulldogs.

   Return revised: 15 Aug → 22 Aug

   Melbourne FC
10. 16 Aug

    Returned to play

    Returned via VFL

    Returned after 21 fixtures missed

    Returned through the VFL for Casey Demons against Box Hill — 19 disposals and a game-high 10 clearances in his first competitive game of 2026.

    zerohanger.com