North Melbourne forward and Rising Star winner Jaidyn Stephenson has reportedly retired from the AFL, although he remains under contract.

7News Melbourne monday afternoon After careful consideration, Stephenson reportedly left the league, claiming he had “lost his passion for the game.”

The Kangaroos are expected to release a statement shortly to confirm news of 25-year-old Stephenson’s departure.

Watch all matches of the NAB AFL Women’s Premiership Season LIVE on Kayo, with no ad breaks during play. New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited time offer.

Taken by Collingwood with pick 6 in the 2017 draft, Stephenson burst onto the AFL scene with a superb debut season, scoring 38 goals in 26 games (including the Magpies’ Grand Final defeat to West Coast) to earn the 2018 Rising Star award.

But Stephenson’s 2019 was derailed when he sensationally received a 10-match ban for placing a series of bets on matches involving the Magpies. He also made headlines for a drunken mountain biking incident that led to him being hospitalized.

Stephenson, who fell out of favor at Collingwood, was traded to North Melbourne after the 2020 season – as part of the Magpies’ paycut process – and played four seasons for the Roos. His best year came in 2023, scoring 26 goals in 21 games.

MORE TO COME…