Western Bulldogs star Aaron Naughton escapes serious injury after landing on neck against Sydney Swans

Western Bulldogs say Aaron Naughton is still a chance to face Fremantle next week after the club cleared him of serious injury and concussion on Friday.

Aaron Kirby
The West Australian
Western Bulldogs say Aaron Naughton is still a chance to face Fremantle next week.
Western Bulldogs say Aaron Naughton is still a chance to face Fremantle next week. Credit: Michael Willson/AFL Photos

Western Bulldogs say Aaron Naughton is still a chance to face Fremantle next week after the club cleared him of serious injury and concussion on Friday.

The star West Australian forward left the Dogs’ clash with Sydney on Thursday night via stretcher after a sickening fall while flying for a mark.

Naughton launched himself into the air but had his legs taken out by a Swans defender running the other way, sending him into a forward flip.

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He landed heavily on his neck and was taken for immediate medical assessment.

However, in a statement released by Western Bulldogs on Friday afternoon, it was revealed Naughton had not sustained structural damage to his neck or spine.

“Scans have cleared Aaron Naughton of any serious structural damage to his neck,” the statement read.

“The forward has some muscle spasm and pain associated with the injury. He has no signs of concussion symptoms.

“Naughton will be monitored over the coming days to determine his availability for Friday’s game against Fremantle.”

The Game NRL 2026

Aaron Naughton of the Bulldogs takes a spectacular mark.
Aaron Naughton of the Bulldogs takes a spectacular mark. Credit: Michael Willson/AFL Photos

The Bulldogs have had a wretched run with injury in 2026, turning their hot start into a downward plummet.

The Dogs currently have eight of their best 22 in the medical ward, including star spearhead Sam Darcy, whose season was cut short by an ACL rupture.

Tom Liberatore and Tim English are also on the list alongside Cody Weightman and Riley Garcia, who are out indefinitely.

They have lost their last two matches by more than 65 points.

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