The key defender suffered the knee injury in the first quarter of Saturday's VFL practice match against Box Hill.

It's the latest in a rough run for injuries for Marchbank, who hasn't played at AFL level since round 16, 2019.

In that game, his season was prematurely ended by a neck fracture, while knee and hamstring issues meant his only involvement in 2020 was in scratch matches.

Marchbank, 24, also missed the start of the 2021 season with a calf injury.

"Caleb has been through an incredible amount of adversity and the way he has dealt with it all is a testament to his quality as a person as well as a professional," Carlton head of football Brad Lloyd said.

"There is no denying football can be unfair sometimes, especially considering how hard Caleb had worked to get his body right to play his best football once again.

"As disappointed as we all are, it does not change our belief in Caleb and the unwavering support we will provide him every step of the way through his rehabilitation."

Marchbank has played 41 games for Carlton since joining from GWS at the end of 2016.

Australian Associated Press