After suffering an acute meniscus tear in the pre-season, highly touted draft pick Elijah Tsatas is expected to play in the VFL this weekend.

General Manager of Performance Daniel McPherson says Tsatas has made a full recovery and will make his first appearance for the club this week.

"Elijah will train fully this week and be available to play his first game for the season in the VFL," McPherson said.

Dylan Shiel will be aiming to return after missing the last two weeks, with the midfielder looking to continue his strong form in the 2023 season.

"Provided he gets through training this week, we expect him to be available to play," McPherson said.

Defender Jake Kelly will also be looking to return, after missing the last three matches due to concussion.

"The aim for Jake (Kelly) is to train fully this week, and if he gets through the week feeling well, and is confident to play again, he will come into selection calculations."

2022 Crichton medallist, Peter Wright edges closer to a return, however, it will not be in Essendon's round 11 clash with North.

"Whether it’s before or after the bye is yet to be determined, but he won't play this week," McPherson said.

Forward Harry Jones will miss the rest of the 2023 season after recent ankle surgery.

Jones was sidelined with back stress and the club proactively decided the time was right to fix the ankle ligament issues that have sidelined him in the past. Jones has started a rehab program that will ensure he is ready to go on day one of the pre-season.

In a positive light, Jayden Laverde, Matt Guelfi and Nik Cox all made successful and unscathed returns to the field with the former two playing a role in Essendon's 50-point win over the Eagles.