But the Blues hold out hope the gun forward will be available as early as round two, after he recently returned to full training.
Coach Michael Voss confirmed to the club's fans at an open training on Sunday that his charges would take on the Tigers without Curnow, 28, at the MCG on Thursday night.
Carlton said they were opting to ensure Curnow, who had knee surgery in February, "benefits from an additional block of full training" rather than rushing him back.
But the Blues will be desperate to have one of the league's best forwards available in a tough start to the season.
After Richmond, they take on red-hot Hawthorn on Thursday March 20, followed by games against the Western Bulldogs and arch-rivals Collingwood.
Curnow has booted 64, 81 and 57 goals over the past three seasons.
The back end of his 2024 was ruined by an ankle injury and he had both knee and ankle surgery over the off-season.
In his absence, fellow big man Harry McKay will lead Carlton's attack.
The Blues are eyeing a response to last season's meek elimination final exit, when they were trounced by eventual premiers Brisbane Lions at the Gabba.
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