Fremantle will face Geelong on Sunday, March 26 at Domain Stadium in its season opener. The Dockers are coming off a dismal season which saw them finish 16th last year after winning the minor premiership in 2015.
Answering questions on a Facebook Q&A for AFL.com.au, Lyon said Bennell would hopefully play early in the year.
"He won't be available for round one but his rehab is progressing well, particularly post-Germany. We expect to see him, if all goes to plan, in the early rounds," the coach said.
