The return of Collingwood defender Jeremy Howe could impose a grand final week headache on coach Craig McRae.
Howe injured his adductor in round 24 and has been racing against the clock to restore some stability to the Magpies' back six.
He has been listed as 1-2 weeks away, meaning he could be available for selection ahead of the preliminary or grand final.
Howe recently re-signed at Collingwood after another strong campaign behind the ball.
Collingwood captain Darcy Moore allayed any concerns around a smaller backline with a stirring performance against Adelaide in last week's qualifying final, but Howe would be a welcomed return if fit.
Howe is not the only star Magpie racing the clock, as Norm Smith Medallist Bobby Hill does everything he can to earn a September lifeline.
Hill cancelled a guest appearance in Tasmania on Saturday to play in a scratch match between Collingwood and Geelong's reserve players.
The 2023 Norm Smith Medallist kicked four goals and is putting his hand up to play the winner of Brisbane or Gold Coast.
McRae has made a series of tough finals calls, axing John Noble despite playing every home-and-away game ahead of the 2023 decider and omitting Dan McStay for Mason Cox last week.