Winless Essendon will have to confront Adelaide without coach Ben Rutten, who is isolating as a COVID-19 close contact.
Rutten tested negative but is required to isolate for seven days as he is a household contact of a positive case.
Senior assistant coach Blake Caracella will take the AFL reins against the Crows, when the Bombers who are 0-3, will seek to make amends for their worst start to a season since 1967.
"Ben has tested negative but is a household contact and will isolate for the required period of time," Essendon football boss Josh Mahoney said.
"We understand this is the landscape and like many other clubs at the moment, will adjust to the situation accordingly.
"As such, Ben will remain involved in the program remotely.
"Blake Caracella will take on the duties of the senior coach position in Ben's absence over the coming days, with our program remaining fully focused on our preparations for Sunday's game against Adelaide."
Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir and Carlton counterpart Michael Voss have also missed matches through the AFL's health and safety protocols.
Essendon confirmed all other staff and players completed rapid antigen tests as normal upon arriving at the club on Wednesday morning.
