FORMER SYDNEY co-captain Jarrad McVeigh looks set for another late start to the season after injuring his calf at training last week.

McVeigh, who missed 2016's preliminary final win over Geelong with the same problem, but managed to play in the club's Grand Final loss to the Western Bulldogs, is likely to miss 3-4 weeks.

The 31-year-old defender missed the first three games of 2016 as he recovered from off-season knee surgery, and this latest setback places huge doubts over his availability for the Swans' round one clash with Port Adelaide at the SCG.

McVeigh didn't play any part in the Swans' intraclub match last month and also missed the club's opening JLT Community Series game against North Melbourne in Coffs Harbour.

Young star Isaac Heeney (illness) and fellow former co-captain Kieren Jack (managed) will join McVeigh as onlookers at Friday's Sydney Derby against the Giants, but there are some big names ready to return.

Heeney and Jack, along with key defender Aliir Aliir (toe) are likely to be back for the Swans' final JLT Community Series match against St Kilda in Albury on Sunday March 12.

Superstar forward Lance Franklin and ruckman Sam Naismith have been cleared to play after undergoing shoulder reconstructions in the off-season, while defenders Dane Rampe (hip) and Heath Grundy will also face GWS in Blacktown.