Geelong will send ruckman Brad Ottens for scans this week to ensure no further structural damage to his knee and the accuracy of their optimistic four-to-six week timeframe for his AFL absence.

Geelong coach Mark Thompson said Ottens injured a medial ligament when his knee buckled awkwardly during the first quarter of their 20-point win over Richmond at Skilled Stadium on Saturday.

It had been initially feared Ottens had suffered a more serious injury, either a posterior cruciate or an anterior cruciate ligament.

The Cats immediately hosed down any talk of a half-season or rest-of-season absence for their No.1 ruckman post-match, marking him down as missing four to six weeks.

But more certainty will come this week, with the club saying on Sunday Ottens would be sent for further scans on the injury - perhaps as soon as Monday.

Ottens' loss is likely to mean a test of depth for the Cats, with one of their reserve big men - either Trent West or Shane Mumford - to be promoted.

The pair covered Ottens' absence for the first half of last season, with Mark Blake stepping up to the No.1 ruck role.

Thompson said he was confident the Cats could deal with the loss of Ottens.

"He didn't play until round 10 last year and we didn't lose a game in the rounds Brad didn't play, so that's the beauty of our team," Thompson said.

"It creates opportunities for young players to get a few games. We'll cope okay without him."

The Cats have also lost forward Mitchell Brown, their first round draft pick from last year, for the rest of the season after he broke his leg in a reserves match at the weekend.

Carlton will find out on Monday the seriousness of weekend shoulder injuries to defenders Michael Jamison and Andrew Walker.

Jamison fell awkwardly on his shoulder during a marking contest in the Blues' 19-point win over Brisbane.

Walker, who has been dogged by a succession of shoulder injuries, again damaged the joint during a reserves match at the weekend.

Both will have scans on Monday.

Sydney forward Barry Hall, who tweaked a groin and midfielder Craig Bird (knee) are also expected to be sent for scans on Monday.

The pair were injured during the Swans' upset win over Hawthorn.

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