But at 34, time is also clearly running out.

Despite some really positive signs from Sydney in round one, it’s perhaps more realistic to put John Longmire’s men in a development phase than as a genuine shot at a flag – this season, at least.

In recent years, injury has done what many defenders haven’t been able to manage and quell Buddy’s influence.

There’s no doubt he’ll be feeling a few nerves when he runs on to the ground against the Crows.

Even the very best players have doubts about whether they can recapture their best, particularly after so many setbacks.

The challenge for Longmire and his coaching team will be to keep Buddy’s own expectations in check.

Like any forward that’s achieved what he has, a big bag of goals will be in the back of his mind. But, for the moment, it must be small steps until he gets that trademark swagger back.

Sometimes all it takes is one moment, or a two-minute burst to know you’re back, and for Buddy, don’t be surprised if that comes as he wheels around onto his left foot with a booming goal from outside 50.

The new man on the mark rule will suit him down to the ground. Teams have always been wary of that arc and will need to be now, more than ever.

But above any personal accolades for Buddy, there are now goals of a different kind. A father of two, his priorities both on and off the field are unlikely to be what they once were.

While Father Time might ensure he never does deliver the Swans a premiership, his greatest gift to ‘the Bloods’ will be moulding the players who ultimately win their next one.

Number four draft pick Logan McDonald showed his clear potential with three goals on debut against Brisbane last week.

Could Buddy’s presence and ability to demand the footy simply by being on the field could stifle a player like McDonald’s progress?

His return should, in fact, have the opposite effect. McDonald will no doubt find things much tougher as the season progresses.

Having Franklin alongside him means he can develop more naturally or organically.

Buddy will take the best defender and considerable heat off younger team-mates like McDonald and Tom McCartin, who has already showed plenty of promise.

Despite his soft tissue concerns, I don’t see why he can’t get back to somewhere near his best. His build-up, while interrupted, has been patient.

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He looks fit and hungry.

Given he’s not exactly a ‘footyhead’ it wouldn’t have been a surprise to see Buddy sail off into the sunset, but to keep fighting back from injury shows his motivation remains strong.

Like Dusty, he’s more introvert than extrovert. While he might feed off the limelight, it’s never seemed like he’s sought it. That being said, if he can use the energy of the crowd on Saturday, then look out.

You can’t overstate what that roar does for you as a player, particularly someone like Buddy.

And while he mightn’t be the same Buddy Franklin we once knew – at least, initially - he’s still worth the price of entry. I’m sure the broadcasters will also enjoy his return as fans tune in.

He might be the last of the 1000-goal forwards we ever see, so let’s enjoy one of the greats for the remainder of his career.