North Melbourne defender Ben McKay will miss the beginning of the AFL season after scans confirmed bone stress in his right foot.

McKay will offload his foot over the coming weeks, and work closely with the club's medical team on a rehabilitation program.

"Ben's pre-season preparation has been seamless, so this is unfortunate news on the eve of Round 1," general manager of football Todd Viney said.

"Our immediate focus is to ensure Ben's symptoms settle. His rehab program will continue to evolve with the aim to integrate him back into the training program in due course."

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