Fremantle forward Matt Taberner's foot complication could be a blessing in disguise for the Dockers, as it could open up a list spot for the side in the NAB AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft on Monday.
The Dockers are continuing to investigate whether or not the tall forward has a stress fracture in his left foot.
The 25-year-old could be out for the remainder of the season, although he is currently listed as being able to return in eight weeks.
If he is put on the long-term injury list, it would give Fremantle a spot for the draft.
Rumours have already linked the list spot to former North Melbourne midfielder Declan Mountford and Peel defender Jarvis Pina.
"I think we're yet to determine whether it will be season-ending for Matt or not, it's in its early stages of assessment, but that would certainly be a consideration," coach Ross Lyon told the media on Wednesday.
"I feel disappointment and a real empathy for Matt. It's one of the hardest things being an AFL player is that resilience of your body, and he's one of our great preparers and he's a really good story of hard work, improvement and growth.
"It's part of the journey. We're going to have to find a solution. There's some mechanics issues there."
