However Johnson’s return is the big news for Freo, which has made just one change for Saturday afternoon’s clash with Port Adelaide.
The versatile tall was suspended by his club for six matches after being charged on a drugs-related offence. He last week returned to the WAFL, and has forced his way back into Mark Harvey’s team at the expense of young defender Alex Silvagni.
Port Adelaide has made five changes for its trip to Subiaco.
The Power has lost Josh Carr (ribs) and Jacob Surjan (knee) in a big blow, while it has dumped Jay Nash, Danny Meyer and Jason Davenport.
However Mark Williams has recalled some big names, with Steven Salopek, Brett Ebert, Troy Chaplin, Justin Westhoff and Matthew Broadbent to strengthen a side desperately needing a win.
Western Bulldogs coach Rodney Eade has stayed true to his word, calling in Shaun Higgins, Callan Ward and Sam Reid to add some run and grunt to his line-up ahead of Friday night’s showdown with the Hawks at the MCG.
Reid will play his first match of the year, his selection capping a successful comeback for the 20-year-old who has had to manage diabetes after learning he had the condition in the off-season.
Hawthorn has named an unchanged side, with Campbell Brown failing in his bid to overcome a knee injury and win his place back in the senior side.
Collingwood has lost speedy forward Brad Dick to a shoulder injury with Jack Anthony - who impressed in defence in the VFL last week - given the nod to replace him.
Skipper Nick Maxwell (calf) will miss again, while Josh Fraser remains an emergency.
Adelaide has brought in Jason Porplyzia for its home game against the Bombers, with Essendon making three changes.
Matthew Knights has promoted Kyle Reimers while Tyson Slattery is set to make his AFL debut in his home state.
As expected, Geelong has recalled three stars but has also lost three of its most important cogs.
Paul Chapman, James Kelly and Joel Corey all come in, Corey for his first game since round four. But Harry Taylor (foot) is out, along with suspended duo Steve Johnson and Cam Mooney.
Daniel Menzel, the Cats’ first-round draft pick from last year, is on the extended bench and a chance to play.
The Sydney Swans have named Daniel Bradshaw and will most likely give him until match day to prove his fitness. Young goal kicker Trent Dennis-Lane is also among the squad, while Tadhg Kennelly and Jarred Moore also look set to play.
And Jason Gram is among St Kilda’s 25-man squad which will meet Melbourne at Etihad Stadium on Sunday, the Saints and Demons to finalise their squads on Friday night.
