Farren Ray's elevation off North's rookie list is a testament to his professionalism both on and off the field, teammate and close friend Nick Dal Santo says.

Recruited by the Roos with pick No.15 in last year's rookie draft, Ray was upgraded to the senior list on Thursday and has been named in the extended squad to face Fremantle.

Dal Santo, who played alongside Ray during their time at St Kilda, said the newly promoted rookie had not put a foot wrong since joining Arden Street.

"For 'Faz' to get elevated is a really good compliment for the way he's come into this footy club," Dal Santo told NMFC.com.au on Thursday.

"I thought his pre-season was as good as I've seen; (he was) in the top three or four within the whole group.

"Even though he was a rookie, he ran really well in the pre-season and in a lot of the practice matches throughout the summer, he was one of the better players in pretty much every session, so he gave himself every opportunity."

Ray was told of his senior promotion while having a massage prior to the team's main training session.

He added he was lying down on the massage table with his eyes poking through the headrest when he noticed North list manager Cam Joyce standing nearby.

"I was getting a massage and my head was in the hole and Joycey's black shoes appeared at the bottom and I remember looking up and he was right there," Ray said with a laugh.

"So I was like, 'Hang on, I'm either in trouble or (it's) something good', and at least it was the latter."

The 187cm midfielder acknowledged being on the rookie list had not dwelled on his mind, instead letting his on-field actions be the main focus.

"I haven't really been thinking too much about it … the way I've approached it is just play footy, train and everything will take care of itself,'' Ray said, citing the hard work still ahead of him.

"Really, I've just been put onto the senior list – I've still got to get a game."

He replaces second-year Roo Ed Vickers-Willis, who was placed on North's long-term injury list in March after having a second shoulder reconstruction late last year.

Ray played 130 games for St Kilda between 2009 and 2015 following 75 games for the Western Bulldogs from 2004 to 2008.

Despite having played much of his football during this time on the wing, Ray said his ability to play in multiple positions, including half-back, would benefit the side.

"My versatility has been a strength of mine and probably just my run. It's capped rotations these days so even if I came off the bench (would help the team)," he said.

"I've played a lot of footy and still think I can give heaps on-field."

Dal Santo reaffirmed that Ray "can fit into any role" that was required of him at North.

"He's really adaptable," Dal Santo said.

"The other benefit of Farren to this footy club is his knowledge. He speaks really well, he sees the game really well and can pass that knowledge to the young guys."