Richmond expects prized Pick 1 Sam Lalor to be available for the club's 2025 season opener against Carlton in two weeks.
Lalor was initially put in doubt after he suffered a fractured jaw in last week's match simulation against West Coast, which ultimately led to him being placed in concussion protocols.
Under the AFL's guidelines, the mid-forward will have to sit out at least 12 days (from last week) before ramping up his preparations in the hope of a debut.
Assistant coach Chris Newman was adamant that Lalor, provided he passes the concussion protocols, will firmly be in the mix against the Blues on March 13.
"He'll obviously go through all the protocols," Newman said post-game at the Community Series against Collingwood.
"We'll give him the best chance. I'm sure the docs and medicos will give him every chance."
The same goes for the injury-prone Tom Lynch, whose been sighted a measly eight times in the past two seasons.
Lynch has battled persistent ankle injuries and was absent from Wednesday's pre-season clash due to a concussion he suffered two weeks ago at training.
But Newman couldn't contain his excitement around the returning key forward, with his on-field skillset not the only thing he'll bring to the senior side.
"He's a great leader around the club," Newman added.
"We know about his AFL ability... he provides really strong contests for us, but more importantly, he provides some experience in our front end, which is really young.
"I think the great thing with Tom is he'll be able to come in and impact straight away and also provide some really strong guidance for our young boys."
Lynch shared that same sentiment onย Fox Footy's coverage of the Pies encounter, allaying Richmond fans' fears that he'll miss Round 1.
"I've had a great pre-season so far but building back up and should be sweet for Round 1."
Lynch also alluded to draftee and fellow forward Thomas Sims being in consideration for the Blues clash.
