Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli says he aims to return against 2024 premiers Brisbane in Gather Round.
Bontempelli was struck down by a "complex calf" injury during the club's pre-season Community Series clash against Hawthorn on what was initially low-level tightness.
However, to the dismay of Bulldogs fans, "scans have revealed a complex injury with tendon involvement", which are prone to having recurrent issues if not treated conservatively.
It is understood that the Brownlow fancy could be out for six weeks, but he's hopeful that timeline can be trimmed down.
"Obviously, not ideal any way that you look at it, missing the jump this year on the start of the season," Bontempelli said on SEN.
"So far it's progressed nicely. I'll start to reload and get back on legs pretty quickly, which is nice.
"It's obviously going to take a little bit of time, which is the frustrating thing, but the good thing is I feel great and really confident with our team that I've spent a long time with from a medical perspective.
"The important part here is to get it right so there's no issues down the track."
Bontempelli has already spent two weeks on the sidelines, and with the Lions as a target date, will miss clashes against North Melbourne (R1), Collingwood (R2), Carlton (R3) and Fremantle (R4).
"Hopefully, it's around five to six weeks (from the injury), we're looking in that vicinity," Bontempelli said.
"Where that takes us to is probably around the Brisbane game in Gather Round, so in and around there is where we're hoping.
"As you know, these things can hopefully speed up if things are progressing nicely. This probably doesn't look exactly like that scenario, so I wouldn't expect us getting back out there before that period."
Amid his injury concern, the six-time All-Australian has had to field persistent questions regarding the future of star forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan.
Bontempelli said "things are definitely moving and progressing in the right direction" and has been catching up with the 22-year-old as part of the process in his recovery.
It was revealed last week that Ugle-Hagan was nearly dropped from the side's elimination final against Hawthorn last year, dealing with ongoing personal issues.
Bontempelli enters 2025 in the final year of his contract, but, like in his past negotiations, is likely to recommit to the club later in the season.
The Bulldogs open their account with a clash against North Melbourne on Saturday night at Marvel Stadium.
