Dempsey, who didn’t play against Geelong due to injury, broke a team rule by going out at night while in recovery.
Essendon Football Operations Manager Steven Alessio said it is important players adhere to team protocol at all times.
“Courtenay breached team discipline by going out while recovering from an injury,” Alessio said.
“The players set high standards for each other and it’s important they don’t breach team rules under any circumstances.”
“It’s disappointing because Courtenay has been in fantastic form this season and he was set to make his return from injury.”
Dempsey has been named to play in Essendon’s VFL team on Saturday
