GARY Ablett is out indefinitely, starting with Sunday's match against Geelong, following a further setback to his injured shoulder.
Gold Coast’s decision to rest Ablett was made after he was reviewed by medical staff on Monday.
The Suns captain had shoulder surgery last July but has struggled in the opening two rounds of the season.
Gold Coast general manager of football operations Marcus Ashcroft said Ablett would definitely miss this week, and possibly more.
"We haven't put a definitive timeline on that, we'll play it week by week," Ashcroft said.
"Hopefully it's not a long time."
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Ashcroft said when assessing Ablett's shoulder, it was apparent his range of movement had been restricted.
He said Ablett’s shoulder was unlikely to strengthen if he continued playing.
"What we do know is that he strengthened his shoulder considerably in the lead-up to round one," he said.
"After a couple of games, where his shoulder has been tested in match conditions, Gary’s shoulder has been stirred up, effecting his movement and strength.
"Our advice is that with some rest and the ability to add more strength, Gary should return in a better state to play."
Ablett has had 19 and 22 disposals in the opening two rounds but laid just one tackle.
Ashcroft said the Suns' medical staff had kept a close eye on Ablett.
"Prior to round one, our medical staff were satisfied with the range of movement Gary had in his left shoulder and as a result Gary was available for selection and personally he was determined to play," he said.
Bookmakers reacted swiftly to the Ablett injury news, and his Brownlow Medal odds ballooned to $15, making him the sixth favourite.
Only a day earlier CrownBet had the Suns champion as an $8.50 chance and third favourite in the market.
The Suns are also in freefall in premiership betting, now out to $101 after being a $26 chance at the start of the year. On Tuesday they were a $7 chance to make the eight and as short as $1.07 to miss the finals.
