Derry wing forward Paul Murphy will miss the NFL Division 1B opener against Galway on February 5 due to bruised ribs.
The Dungiven clubman, who played in all five of the Oak Leafers' championship matches last summer, sustained the injury in the first minute of last Sunday's Dr. McKenna Cup meeting with Antrim.
Derry manager Paddy Crozier said: "Paul damaged his ribs against Antrim and there's no way he'll be fit to play against Galway next week. He's unlikely to be fit for the Wexford game the following week, but he should be back for our third game against Kildare."
Crocked defender Gerard O'Kane could also return against Kildare in March. Having had a groin operation before Christmas, O'Kane was back in full training with Crozier's squad during the week.
