Carlton are still sweating on the availability of star defender Jacob Weitering for their season-opening clash with Brisbane, with the coming fortnight to decide the reigning John Nicholls Medal winner's playing fate.
Weitering sustained a high-grade calf strain almost a month ago that has since placed the 26-year-old in doubt for his side's first game of their 2024 campaign, with his recovery path to continue into late February.
It's likely the key defender will miss his club's pre-season bouts with Geelong and Melbourne, with the next two weeks set to test Weitering's fitness as the club plans to build his workloads on the track.
That period will give Carlton clarity on their vice-captain's chances to make the trip north to Brisbane early next month.
Speaking to AFL.com.au, Blues coach Michael Voss admitted Weitering is facing an uphill battle to be cleared to play Opening Round, stating his return timeframe is on an "edge".
"I think it's unlikely," Voss said.
"He's on that edge about whether he does or he doesn't, but certainly in the next week or two he has a couple of milestones he needs to tick off for him to feel comfortable.
"I'll wait for those milestones and make some definitive calls on when we think [his return date] might be."
Carlton's list is near full health outside of Weitering's setback and forward Jack Silvagni's ACL injury, with dashing defender Zac Williams set to return to the field as early as this month from his own long-term knee injury.
Trio Sam Docherty (foot), Blake Acres (shoulder) and forward Corey Durdin (shoulder) are also set to be ready for the preliminary final rematch with the Lions early next month following their respective pre-season limitations.
The Blues will be without recruit Elijah Hollands for their opening two games of the season as the midfielder serves a two-game suspension for conduct unbecoming.
Carlton will travel to the Gabba and open their 2024 campaign against the Lions on Friday, March 8 before returning to the MCG for a clash with Richmond the following Thursday.