Richmond is set to take only one player in next week's Mid-Season Draft despite considering options with players on the long-term injury list.
Emerging defender Josh Gibcus was struck down for the season by an ACL sprain to his left knee, opening a vacancy at the club.
The Tigers have been decimated by injury, and broached the topic of top-up players to the AFL in case they needed to reach into the VFL stocks in case of an emergency.
Richmond has been linked to Tasmania Devils VFL player Jaxon Artemis.
"Right now, we've got one pick," Tigers coach Adem Yze said.
"Our list management crew will go through (who to select). We'll sit down over the next few days. Once we know what pick we've got, we'll work out the best talent and we'll bring that in."
Artemis isn't alone as considerations for the Tigers, who don't have to look too far for potential prospects in Sam Toner and Mutaz El Nour.
The pair play for the club's VFL outfit, which has been a breeding ground for AFL talent in recent years.
Tom McCarthy and Sam Davidson are among a list of names who have graduated from the reserves league, and Yze is hopeful Toner and El Nour live out their dreams next week.
"Hopefully," he said.
"Knowing the type of kids they are, and how hard they've toiled, whether it's with us or they get drafted by someone else, that's what you love. Stories around guys hanging in there at AFL level, and getting an opportunity, that's what the Mid-Season Draft is about.
"We're hoping for that, because that's another story of our VFL program producing quality AFL players. Fingers crossed for both of them."
Richmond's Dreamtime at the G clash against Essendon is significant for multiple reasons, and is largely viewed as the match that will determine the wooden spoon.
Both Victorian clubs have struggled to salute this season, notching a solitary win each. The loser will claim Pick 1 in the Mid-Season Draft, and will have early claims on the first selection in November.
Campbell Gray is one forced change Yze will contend with following a high-grade hamstring strain he suffered last week.
Mykelti Lefau and Jasper Alger will be available for senior selection. Tom Sims will play managed minutes in the VFL.
