But it’s all part of the plan according to Port Adelaide’s director of coaching and strategy Alan Richardson.
“At the start of the year our plan was to give our young guys a rest periodically if possible, irrespective of whether they’re playing AFL or SANFL footy," Richardson told portadelaidefc.com.au.
“The SANFL system provides that through the bye, but there are fewer opportunities to do that in the AFL.
“Jake has dropped off a bit in recent weeks so we think he’s going to be better - and we by extension will be better as a team - if he has a bit of a spell.
"He'll come back refreshed and ready to finish strongly for the rest of the year.”
Neade has played in all but one game in 2013 after making his debut at the start of the year against Melbourne.
He was nominated for the NAB AFL Rising Star award for his performance against Sydney in Round 13.
Richardson says Neade has exceeded expectations in his first season of AFL football.
But the decision to rest him is about ensuring he becomes a player that exceeds expectations over a number of years.
“He’s been really amazing in terms of his ability to physically compete both from a running and game-impact perspective," said Richardson.
"We’ve been really impressed and surprised with how well he's gone.
"He’s a determined young feller, but at the moment it simply appears that he needs a break.
“It’s not just about this week and next week, it’s about long-term - we don't want young guys in a position where they’re at risk of stress related injury."
See the Port Adelaide team to play the Brisbane Lions here.
