FREMANTLE captain Alex Pearce will not require surgery and should return to training during the pre-season in a boost for the Dockers following their heartbreaking Grand Final loss.

Scans have revealed Pearce suffered a partial strain of his Achilles as well as a "significant" calf strain in the third quarter of Saturday's defeat to Brisbane at the MCG.

Despite initial concerns Pearce could miss the majority of the 2027 season due to the injury, the Dockers are confident he will be back training again over the pre-season.

"Thankfully Alex has not had a complete rupture of his Achilles tendon and he will not require surgery," Dockers footy boss Joe Brierty said.

"Scans have revealed a partial tear of his Achilles tendon and also a significant calf strain.

"Our performance health team will continue to consult specialist advice and assess the timeline for his rehabilitation program.

"As it stands, we expect Alex to return to training in pre-season."

Pearce's injury, while not as serious as first thought, had put the focus on Fremantle's defensive stocks heading into next season.

Brennan Cox should be back in the best 23 next season after his finals campaign was ruined by a calf issue of his own, with journeyman defender Oscar McDonald taking Cox's spot during September.

The Dockers also have 31-gamer Josh Draper on their list as well as Hugh Davies, who recently re-committed to the club despite playing just two AFL games in four seasons.

Richmond premiership defender Nathan Broad has always been raised as a low-cost option for the Dockers, with Broad having departed the Tigers to return home to Western Australia, but still keen to continue his career.