Inspirational Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson has opened up for the first time following the passing of his brother.

Dawson has produced some of the most scintillating football since Jarryd passed away in April, and Thursday's performance against the Western Bulldogs was no different.

Following the one-point victory last week over Geelong, the Crows skipper became emotional, and in the lead-up to the Bulldogs clash, he explained to Channel Seven what he was going through.

"After a close game like that, the emotions are high, and for me it was a moment I really felt like I wanted him there for," Dawson said.

"To not have him there, it kind of hit me straight after the game.

"Just looking around the stands and up to the sky, and knowing he wasn't there was obviously pretty overwhelming.

"But it didn't take away from the joy and happiness I had in that moment, so it's a bit of a contrasting feeling."

Football had become a release for Dawson amid a tumultuous time for he and his family, and found clarity in what he was doing when he pulled on the Adelaide jumper.

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"I know how to play footy, and I was pretty clear on my role in the team, and how we go about it," he said.

"So I did find myself enjoying footy in the couple of hours to be able to switch off and have a real understanding and clarity of what I was meant to do for those couple of hours.

"I can't thank the AFL enough, all the captains and obviously the Crows as well. They've been unbelievable to me and the family.

"You obviously never wish this upon anyone, but you also don't realise the support you have and the generosity around you until something like this happens.

"From the bottom of my heart, I just want to thank the AFL and the Crows, who have been awesome."

Dawson produced the third-highest rated quarter of any player in the opening term.

He recorded eight disposals, three goals, two marks, two tackles, two clearances, three inside 50s and five score involvements.

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