Hogan, who dominated the VFL in 2013 when he was part of the Demons' squad but barred from playing in the AFL, has managed one pre-season match against Geelong this year.

There's every chance the 19-year-old will not add to that tally in 2014.

The Demons on Thursday promoted Alex Georgiou off the rookie list in place of Hogan, who first hurt his back in the game against Geelong in February.

Hogan and coach Paul Roos were seen as the two most critical figures in the Demons' attempt to rise up the ladder.

Roos said the club was doing everything possible to protect the longevity of Hogan's time in the AFL.

"He's got 12 to 15 years of his career in front of him, hopefully, so we've got to be conservative," Roos told the club's website.

"(We have to) look after him and make sure he gets right.

"He got through the pre-season and the game and said 'gee, there's something wrong with my back'. It's really frustrating for anyone, but certainly for a young kid."

Hogan's indefinite absence further reduces Melbourne's forward stocks, already diminished by the recent retirement of Mitch Clark.