Richmond's Graham Polak has missed out - for now - on achieving one of the feelgood stories of the AFL season, as he was overlooked for Sunday's clash against Sydney at the MCG.

Polak was on an expanded bench when the Tigers named their squad for the game on Thursday night, but he was trimmed when the side was finalised on Friday night.

The 25-year-old key-position player, who has not played for Richmond since he was hit by a tram in June last year, has been named first emergency.

Unless Polak gets a late call-up to replace a withdrawal, he will play in the VFL on Sunday for the Tigers' affiliate Coburg.

Polak was considered a longshot to make the final 22 this weekend, but being named in the squad was the closest he has been so far to returning to the AFL, providing encouragement he can return with three rounds to play.

Polak suffered bruising to his brain in the accident and spent several days in an induced coma.

The Tigers settled on recalling Alex Rance and Angus Graham to replace Trent Cotchin (hip) and Adam Pattison in their settled side.

The Swans made one change, as Matt O'Dwyer replaced the injured Craig Bird (shoulder).

Port Adelaide made no change for Sunday's game against Fremantle at Subiaco Oval, a clash the Power must win if they are to retain their spot in the eight.

The Dockers lost forward Hayden Ballantyne to suspension and dropped Michael Walters and Scott Thornton after the defeat to the Western Bulldogs.

Brett Peake, Byron Schammer and Marcus Drum won recalls.

North Melbourne midfielder Daniel Harris, along with youngster Leigh Adams, returned for Sunday's clash against Melbourne at Etihad Stadium to replace Leigh Harding (hamstring) and veteran Adam Simpson, who bowed into retirement after the loss to Carlton.

The Demons made five changes to the side pipped by Richmond, but four of those were forced.

Youngster Jack Grimes (hip) and defenders Matthew Warnock (ankle), Matthew Whelan (foot) and Jamie Bennell (knee) succumbed to injury, while ruckman Paul Johnson was dropped.

Midfielders Colin Sylvia and Brent Moloney returned with defender Cale Morton, and Tom McNamara and Rohan Bail were both given the green light to make their debuts.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP