Adam Simpson's take on why he is about to become North Melbourne's third 300-gamer echoes Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

Darwin rated adaptability - not strength or intelligence - as the best guide to survival in the animal kingdom, and Simpson credits the same characteristic with his AFL survival.

The humble Kangaroos veteran says it is not any great skill or speed that have him set to notch the rare milestone against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium on Sunday, but an ability to change with the game.

"I've probably had to rely on my footy smarts a bit to get by," Simpson said on Thursday.

"There's still room for players who aren't very quick and are perhaps not as skilful as others, I suppose.

"I don't know how long it's going to last, it might last another two weeks, it might last until next year, so I'll take it as it comes."

The previous 300-gamers at North Melbourne are two of the most revered figures in the club's history.

Wayne Schimmelbusch was named the club's inaugural official legend, while the Roos acknowledged Glenn Archer as their Shinboner of the Century.

Simpson is proud to join the exclusive group, but feels he is a class below the other two members.

"It's a bit weird, because I think they're champions of the game not just the club, whereas I probably got there with no injuries, being pretty durable and reasonably consistent," Simpson said.

"Those qualities get you games and being able to adapt to the game as well is probably an asset I've got.

"But those guys are at a different level, I feel, they're elite in terms of their ability and what they gave to our club.

"It's great to be part of that group but I wouldn't be putting myself next to them."

Simpson, who admitted he was most content when flying "under the radar" and not the focus of public attention, said he would be happy to have the milestone behind him.

But he was hoping it could play a part in inspiring the Roos to an upset win, something the Crows have managed against other opponents in recent weeks when celebrating milestones for Andrew McLeod and Tyson Edwards.

"We're no worries this week, my 300th, they'll win it for me, the boys, that's the plan," Simpson said with a smile.

"No, it's going to be quite a tough game, we haven't beaten Adelaide for a long time, but we've got a lot of kids in the side who haven't played against Adelaide, so they're not worried about that.

"We've prepared really well, the boys are up and about, so we'll give it a go."

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