Simpson, Brent Harvey and Brady Rawlings – the three most experienced players on North's list – could even be used in different positions if the right midfield mix is found.
Though a convincing effort would be needed to unseat any one of the trio, Simpson understands his coaches will have to look to the future.
The midfield has been a strong focus of North's pre-season – bolstered by former St Kilda assistant coach Anthony Rock's return to Arden Street to take charge of it.
"Personnel have changed and the game has changed," Simpson said. "We're lucky we've got coaches who I think are at the forefront of where the game's going and understand what we need in the midfield and what we're trying to achieve.
"We've been trying different things pre-season. You'll definitely see different people running through. It won't be the same old [midfield].
"It might not be the greatest thing for me but it's a sign of the times. You've got to get a bit of pace through there. You can't just be good at stoppages, you've got to be able to win your own footy but also spread well. You've got to kick goals and you've got to get back and help the defence."
Simpson, who has recovered from major shoulder surgery to play in North's last three practice games, is primed for his 15th season.
However, stepping down as captain has encouraged the 33-year-old's renewed outlook.
"My fitness has probably increased with (strength and conditioning coach) Paul Turk's program and my body's feeling really good," he said. "It's just a matter of how I play.
"Just like any other year, you've got to perform to play. Our list is really healthy at the moment and I think Dean (Laidley)'s really trying to experiment as well. Normally the captain gets a game every week, but that is taken from me.
"I'm not delusional in thinking I'm going to play in the centre all year. I'd like to, but you've got to adjust as the year goes on. I've got a pretty open mind but I expect to make an impact still."
Draftees Jack Ziebell and Liam Anthony, defenders Michael Firrito, Leigh Harding and Gavin Urquhart and utilities Scott McMahon and Ed Lower have been used in midfield roles over the summer.
Regulars Daniel Wells, Daniel Harris and Andrew Swallow have also had good preparations.
"We've turned the list over more than other club in the last three years," Simpson said. "The list turnover's been huge, and we still maintain moderate success.
"Now the next step is for those guys to get some experience in the middle, find out what it's like and do it tough for a few weeks.
"This time of year you try it out. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. When you get to the season proper, who knows?
"Someone might bob up and be a regular midfielder who hasn't been there for the last three or four years."
Dream Team watch – Adam Simpson is rated a $388,000 midfielder in Toyota AFL Dream Team 2009
