CARLTON'S No.10 draft pick Harry McKay will miss at least the next 12 weeks after suffering a stress reaction in his lower back.

Scans revealed the 18-year-old key forward will not require surgery, however.

Blues football manager Andrew McKay said the 18-year-old could still debut in 2016 despite the setback

"After a second set of scans confirmed the injury, Harry will unfortunately miss the first two months of the season," McKay said.

"With no surgery required, Harry will rest for the next two weeks before beginning his rehab plan."

Listed at 200cm and 93kg, McKay played a solitary pre-season game against Essendon and had three disposals after coming on to the field in the second half.