Bulldogs superstar forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan could be back training at Whitten Oval sooner rather than later.
Coach Luke Beveridge spoke to reporters on Wednesday, detailing how he’d been in discussions with the 23-year-old on a potential return.
After penning a two-year extension on Tuesday, Beveridge couldn’t give an exact time frame on when Ugle-Hagan might be available, but he remained optimistic he could be back playing senior footy within six weeks.
"We're working through that. I've had some meetings with 'Marra'," Beveridge said.
MORE: Western Bulldogs secure key part of their future
Luke Beveridge is hopeful Jamarra Ugle-Hagan will soon return to the Dogs. https://t.co/8wNcMIUVMi
— AFL (@AFL) June 11, 2025
"Whether it's in the distance or whether it's a month and a half away, I couldn't tell you.”
The Bulldogs’ 67-gamer has been on an extended leave of absence dating back to last year, taking time away from the club to focus on personal battles.
After spending time at a health facility in NSW recently, the former No. 1 draft pick treated fans to an intense Rocky-style training clip on his socials last week, teasing a potential return.
"He's come back from a month of doing everything he can to sort of refocus and work out what's next in his life and the next steps,” Beveridge went on to say.
Ugle-Hagan, who has been under the league's mental health plan since stepping away, would require a tick of approval from the AFL to successfully return this year, although that hasn’t stopped trade speculation with the Sydney Swans becoming the most popular destination, offering a quieter lifestyle away from the Melbourne media.