Carlton player Jacob Weitering sustained a rib fracture during the AFL State of Origin match but has received positive news regarding his recovery. The club confirmed that Weitering, who was involved in a heavy collision with WA forward Mitch Georgiades in the first quarter, has been cleared of more serious injuries such as neck or spinal damage. He was taken to the hospital for scans after the incident but is now back in Melbourne and is optimistic about his return for the opening round of the 2026 season.

Upon his release from the hospital on Sunday morning, Weitering returned to Carlton, where further assessments revealed the rib injury. The club has expressed confidence in his rehabilitation, suggesting that he has a good chance of being fit to play in the season opener against the Swans in Sydney on March 5. This news comes as a relief not only for Weitering but also for the Carlton team, who will be looking to have their star defender on the field as they commence the new season.

The incident highlights the physical nature of the AFL and the potential for injuries during high-stakes matches like the State of Origin. While Weitering's rib fracture is certainly an injury to manage, the absence of major complications is a positive takeaway for both the player and the club, emphasizing the importance of ongoing medical assessments for athlete safety. As the season approaches, Carlton will be keenly monitoring Weitering's recovery progress while preparing for their upcoming match against the Swans, hopeful for a strong start to the season with their vice-captain playing an integral role in their defense.