Defender Jackson Archer is among the players targeting a return to North Melbourne's senior team for its Round 7 trip to face Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval.

Archer, who must pass a fitness test ahead of Thursday's main training session if he is to replace the injured Zac Fisher, hasn't played since the Kangaroos' season opener against the Western Bulldogs. Having served a three-game ban for rough conduct in that game, he suffered a hamstring injury that has delayed his return.

Line-breaking defender Riley Hardeman will be among the names in consideration for coach Alastair Clarkson and his selection committee should Archer remain unavailable.

Omitted after Round 5's game against Gold Coast, Hardeman was named an emergency on Good Friday, and had 14 touches including four intercept possessions in the VFL team's narrow win over Carlton. 

Defenders Kallan Dawson and Wil Dawson could also be in the mix to play their first senior games this season. Kallan backed up his strong VFL form with another 14 disposals against Carlton, while Wil collected six intercepts while causing the Blues' forwards plenty of problems.

Midfielder Will Phillips did his chances of earning a senior recall no harm with an eye-catching VFL performance, tallying 23 disposals, 10 tackles and four clearances. Likewise, Bailey Scott (21 disposals, four marks) put his stamp on the game both as an onballer and on the wing. 

Ruck-forward Brynn Teakle edged closer to a recall, having been named an AFL emergency in Round 6 for the second week running. He kicked a goal, won 23 hitouts and four clearances in a versatile performance in the VFL win.

Eddie Ford will be among the forward options in consideration, having made his return from a hamstring injury for the Reserves. Goalsneak Cooper Harvey kicked three goals in the VFL team's win, while Robert Hansen jnr also made an impact despite only playing the first half.