It won't take long for Sam Draper and Oscar Allen to be seen in Brisbane colours, pending no "setbacks", according to coach Chris Fagan.
The Lions secured the pair as free agents during the off-season that followed a second consecutive premiership.
The reigning premiers bolstered their ruck and forward stocks, which, despite the success, have taken a hit since the retirements of Joe Daniher and Oscar McInerney.
Both Draper and Allen were struck down by serious injuries in 2025, limiting the latter to 12 games, while the former Bomber played five.
But Fagan said the duo could be seen in pre-season clashes, with a focus on unveiling the new recruits very early in the season.
"The expectation is that they'll be right to play round 1," Fagan told SEN.
"In fact, they should be right to play at least one practice match, if not two.
"If there's no setbacks, that's what will happen."
Draper and Allen join the group alongside a host of draftees, and will be pivotal to the leadership piece in 2026.
Fagan noted that departures of McInerney, alongside Brandon Starcevich and Callum Ah Chee, opened roles that need filling.
"They are really energetic blokes, and I love those sorts of players in our club," Fagan said.
"Both are great characters; they both have a sense of fun. They've both been in leadership roles at their club, which is great because we lost a little bit of leadership with Starce (Brandon Starcevich) going back to Perth, and Oscar McInereney was in our leadership group (who retired).
"I think Draper was regarded very highly at Essendon for his leadership abilities and the way he can bring fun to the place.
"It's good to have those two players; they are training well at the moment, which is a bit of a surprise. We thought they might take a little bit longer, but they are back, albeit a little bit modified."
The Lions will kick off their 2026 campaign in Opening Round, hosting the Western Bulldogs at the Gabba on Saturday, March 7.
