Former North Melbourne and Collingwood forward Jaidyn Stephenson has revealed the reason behind his shock AFL retirement.

The 25-year-old revealed on Monday he was calling time on his career after seven seasons and 122 games across two AFL clubs with a year still remaining on a lucrative contract at the battling Kangaroos.

Stephenson kicked 130 goals across his 122 outings, including a career-high 38 in his electric debut season for the Pies in 2018, helping the side to the grand final against West Coast where he booted two majors.

However, in a statement released by North Melbourne on Tuesday, Stephenson revealed he had lost the passion for the sport and wanted to explore life away from the AFL spotlight.

“It became clear as this season finished that I wasn’t as passionate about football as I once was,” he said.

“I loved the friendships the game brings, but having thought things through during the post-season break, I know I’m ready to see what life’s about away from AFL footy.

“I’ve been fortunate to play at North Melbourne and Collingwood, clubs with long and proud histories. I want to thank the coaches, staff, volunteers and fans for their support, and I wish my old teammates well.”

North Melbourne general manager of football Todd Viney thanked the 2018 Rising Star award winner for his service since joining the club in 2021.

“We appreciate that Jaidyn has made this decision in his best interests and that he is keen to explore other things in his life,” Viney said.

“We thank Jaidyn, parents Darren and Raquel and the Stephenson family for their contribution to the club over the past four years.”

Stephenson made 68 appearances for the lowly Roos - for just eight wins - before falling out of favour for most of the back half of this year.

His final career tally of 122 is the lowest by any player to win the Rising Star award in its three-decade history, one game shy of former Fremantle midfielder Rhys Palmer’s 123.