Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Taylor Adams has suffered another hamstring injury in his first match back in the VFL, dealing a significant blow to the Sydney Swans midfielder and raising fresh concerns about his playing future. The injury occurred during Sydney's VFL clash with Southport on the Gold Coast on Saturday, with Adams leaving the field during the first quarter before the Swans confirmed the setback.
The latest injury continues a frustrating run for the 32 year old, who has struggled to remain on the field since joining Sydney from Collingwood ahead of the 2024 AFL season.
Another cruel setback for Adams
Adams entered the match hoping to build momentum after an extended period on the sidelines.
Instead, his comeback lasted less than a quarter before he was forced from the ground with another hamstring problem.
The experienced midfielder has endured persistent soft tissue issues over recent seasons, limiting his ability to play consistent football.
Since the start of the 2025 season, Adams has managed just four AFL appearances as injuries have repeatedly interrupted his progress.
The recurrence of the problem is particularly concerning given his long history of hamstring troubles.
Injury concerns stretch back years
Adams' hamstring struggles first became a major issue during the final stages of his Collingwood career.
Most notably, he missed the Magpies' 2023 premiership triumph due to injury, a heartbreaking moment for a player who had been a key contributor throughout the season.
His move to Sydney was expected to provide a fresh start, but fitness concerns have continued to impact his time with the Swans.
Across two seasons at the club, Adams has played only 23 games as repeated injury setbacks have restricted his availability.
The latest issue raises questions about how quickly he can return and whether he can regain full fitness before the end of the season.
Difficult period on and off the field
The injury adds to what has been an extremely challenging period for the veteran midfielder.
Earlier this year, Adams was left unconscious following an alleged assault at a licensed venue, an incident that further disrupted his preparation.
Combined with his ongoing physical setbacks, the past 18 months have been among the most difficult of his professional career.
Sydney will now assess the severity of the latest hamstring injury before determining a recovery timeline.
Stengle shines in successful comeback
While Adams endured another setback, Geelong forward Tyson Stengle enjoyed a positive return to competitive football.
Playing his first match since Geelong's grand final defeat to Brisbane, Stengle made an immediate impact in the Cats' VFL clash against Gold Coast.
The talented forward kicked three goals early before finishing with four majors from 16 disposals in Geelong's 113 point victory.
Stengle has spent extended periods away from the club while dealing with personal issues and has had limited opportunities to train consistently.
Geelong taking cautious approach
Despite Stengle's strong performance, Geelong coach Chris Scott indicated the club would not rush the forward back to AFL level.
Scott praised Stengle's skill and influence but stressed the importance of allowing him time to build match fitness and confidence.
The Cats plan to give him several weeks in the VFL before considering an AFL recall.
Geelong remains focused on ensuring the former All Australian is physically prepared and fully settled before returning to senior football.
For Adams, however, the immediate focus is once again recovery and rehabilitation as he faces another difficult battle to get back on the field.
