Hugh McCluggage's injured calf is healing slower than expected, delaying the Brisbane Lions star's return.
The All-Australian and newly-promoted co-captain was injured in the Opening Round loss to Western Bulldogs and missed the side's follow up defeat to Sydney.
With a bye last weekend, it was hoped the low-grade tear would heal in time for him to face St Kilda on Saturday.
But Brisbane coach Chris Fagan said the midfielder would miss the clash, and potentially their Easter Thursday blockbuster against Collingwood at the Gabba.
"He's not playing this weekend and whether he's right in five days, that's debatable," Fagan said.
"It's a low-grade calf injury that's not improving very quickly."
The Lions are already without suspended skipper Harris Andrews but will welcome back Zac Bailey and Darcy Gardiner, who both served one-match bans against the Swans.
Young forward Logan Morris (hand) is expected to be fit to play.
The two-time defending champions let a late lead slip against the Bulldogs before Sydney blew them away at the SCG.
"They know the urgency around trying to get that win on the board," Fagan said.
"It's not all doom and gloom."
