put someone on the shelfput (someone) on the shelf
to cause someone not to be available.
A sore left knee put him on the shelf for two weeks, and he has missed six games.
(redirected from put someone on the shelf)
put (one) on the shelf
To render someone unable or unavailable to do something. Sorry, I can't play in Saturday's game. My old knee injury flared up again and has put me on the shelf for a few weeks at least.