St Kilda is hopeful that Max King and Jack Silvagni will integrate into full training by the end of the month, while high-priced recruit Tom De Koning has more hurdles before he's ticked off for Opening Round against Collingwood.
The Saints are arguably the most intriguing team in the competition following their aggressive off-season, which landed De Koning and Silvagni, along with Sam Flanders and Liam Ryan.
Newly appointed Saints GM Lenny Hayes said that the former Carlton ruckman is "progressing really well," and will be eyeing a club debut at the MCG against the Pies on March 8.
"He's back on field now, progressing really nicely, so he'll be ready to attack the next couple of months before the season starts," Hayes said on Monday.
"Opening Round is a fair way ahead from now, but we're really confident where he's at.
"He was really diligent with his rehab; he works really hard. So there's a few milestones to get through before (Opening Round), but we're confident he will be thereabouts."
As for King and Silvagni, the duo are back running and building their loads towards the start of the 2026 season.
"He obviously had a little bit of a setback, but he's not too far away," Hayes said.
"He's back running again already and, again, he's a little bit like Jack (Silvagni). We should be able to see him by the end of the month in full training. If not, early next month.
"(Jack) is going well, he's on track today and should be back in full training by the end of the month, which is really exciting for us.
"He's obviously a quality player and the leadership we think he's going to bring to our backline is going to be pivotal."
Lyon was previously manning the GM of Football role as David Misson departed Moorabbin in pursuit of new opportunities.
Hayes believes the duo, which spent five years together between 2007 and 2011, will work like a "hand in glove", despite the external perception of Lyon's strong persona.
"Ross is one of the most experienced and best coaches in the league," Hayes said.
"For me, coming into this role, it would be silly of me to not lean on his experience. In my conversations with him, he's really keen to have a footy person in this role.
"I think we'll work really well. Hand in glove, if you like. There will be some challenging times, but I know, because we've got that respect, we'll be able to work through those really well."
