Serious fears have emerged over the playing future of young Essendon utility Nik Cox.

It is possible the bright star has played his last AFL game with Essendon now seeking the opinion of an independent concussion panel to determine his future.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Nik Cox’s career in doubt over concussion concern.

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When Cox broke onto the AFL scene it appeared he had the world at his feet.

He was a top-10 draft pick (8 overall) in 2020, and the 200cm athlete excited the AFL world with his athleticism and mobility.

However, he has not been seen at AFL level this year after playing 20 games in 2024.

Channel 7’s gun AFL reporter Xander McGuire broke the sad news about Cox on Friday night ahead of the Dreamtime at the G game.

“The Essendon Football Club is in consultation with the AFL to have young gun Nik Cox assessed by an independent concussion panel,” McGuire said..

“It comes after Cox suffered a relapse of historic concussion symptoms that he’s had in the past.

“The 23-year-old was concussed late last season, also in this pre-season, leading to an absence.

“And his latest issue isn’t actually related to a specific head knock, but rather a relapse of those symptoms that appeared after he returned in the VFL associated with the rigours of playing professional sport.”

When a player meets with a concussion panel a few options follow.

“He could be cleared and continue playing, or there is the worst-case scenario which is the suggestion of a medical retirement,” McGuire said.

Cox has played 53 senior games for the Bombers since being drafted in 2020.

He has only played two VFL games this season, his last being against the Sydney Swans on May 10.