Growing pains may be the best way to describe the current Richmond situation, but it's a narrative that stand-in skipper Tim Taranto is working to shift in his side's favour.

Dreamtime at the 'G gives another opportunity for a young Tigers brigade to showcase their hunger against Essendon, on the biggest stage of the weekend.

For Taranto, who has been leading with captain Toby Nankervis still sidelined due to injury, it's all about turning the setback into motivation for his side.

"It's been challenging, but we've seen so many guys get opportunities now. In the long run, I think it's going to be good for us, if I'm honest. The harder it is now, the better it will be later," Taranto said on Tuesday.

"So many guys are developing, which might not have been the case if we had a full squad out there."

Namely, the rapid midfield growth of 2025 top draftee Sam Cumming, as well as pocket-rocket forward Seth Campbell, has been a benefit to an ever-changing midfield mix.

"He's [Sam Cumming] playing his role so well. He's going to be a star. I can't wait to see him continue to develop," Taranto said.

"Seth, he's been such a damaging forward for us. He got a taste in the midfield last week and hopefully [will get] more time this week."

Overall, Taranto has taken on the responsibility of guiding the playing group through the next phase of the season, with Friday night's Dreamtime at the 'G against the Bombers the next chance to prove themselves on the big stage.

"All these things are going to be positive in the long run, we've just got to ride this wave. If we can front up and give our best effort every week, that's all that matters," he said.

"You see so many guys come in and play their role. We've been really competitive and we go into every game thinking we're going to win. That's the same as Friday."

Richmond hosts Essendon in Friday night's Dreamtime at the 'G, from 7.45pm (AEST). Buy your tickets here.