Despite initial fears that Jordan Ridley was set for a stint on the sidelines, the Bombers have been left relieved to learn he will likely return ahead of their dreamtime match against the Tigers.
Ridley was left concussed after a knock behind the play from Port Adelaide forward Junior Rioli. The incident saw the key defender substituted out of the game early in the 2nd quarter with a concussion.
Rioli has since been suspended for two matches after being sent straight to the tribunal over the incident.
Speaking on Thursday, Essendon coach said he was surprised at Ridley's rapid progression.
"He's doing a really solid running session, which is a surprise to me, but he's recovered really well" said Scott.
"The (concussion) protocols are what they are but that's a huge positive for us that even though he'll be unavailable this week, he looks in really good shape.
"He's progressed much quicker than we thought he would a couple of days ago."
The club's 2020 best and fairest winner will be unavailable ahead of their clash against the Lions in Brisbane this Saturday.
The 24-year-old joins a growing list of injured Bomber defenders, joining Zach Reid (Hamstring), Jayden Laverde (shoulder) and James Stewart (Foot).
"We're bitterly disappointed with his (Reid) hamstring injury but he's never had a hamstring before," Scott said.
"It's something that's new and it's frustrating to all of us but no one's more frustrated than Zach himself."
The new coach has admitted that the defence will be forced to restructure this weekend but is still remaining positive.
"We see it as an opportunity to bring in another player or restructure other players to try and cover it," Scott said.
"We see it as the silver lining of opportunities for other players and an opportunity to test a new structure against a really good team.
"We'll replace personnel that are unavailable with different personnel but play the same system."
The youthful Bombers side now turn their attention to this Saturday where they will meet a well performing Lions side at the Gabba.
