MICHAEL Hurley's hopes of playing in Saturday's Dreamtime at the 'G clash with Richmond will hinge on the next few days as the Essendon forward recovers from concussion.

Hurley was subbed out of the Bombers' loss to the Brisbane Lions on Saturday after his head hit the ground in a tackle from defender Daniel Merrett. 

The 22-year-old, who has endured injury battles with his wrist and ankle already this season, lasted only minutes into the first quarter before being subbed out of the contest. 

Bombers football operations manager Steve Alessio said the gun forward would need to prove his fitness before being given the green light to meet the Tigers.   

"After the game he completed all the tests well, he seemed OK, but with these things you need to just tread carefully and we will see how he goes during the week," Alessio told essendonfc.com.au.

"Obviously with concussion you need to treat it very cautiously, so we will be guided over the next couple of days as to how he comes along."

Defender Courtenay Dempsey will likely return after being ruled unavailable for selection last week for drinking while recovery from injury. 

Dempsey played in the VFL with Essendon on Saturday.

"Courtenay was good over the weekend, he went back, worked hard and showed some good leadership in the VFL," Alessio said.

"We hope he show that kind of leadership on the track this week to put his name up for selection this weekend against Richmond."

Alwyn Davey seems set to miss another week with his hamstring strain.