But father-son draftee Lucas Camporeale will debut against the Tigers, while former GWS defender Nick Haynes will make his first appearance in navy blue.
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 and recently returned to regular training, "benefits from an additional block of full training" rather than rushing him back.
The back end of Curnow's 2024 was ruined by an ankle injury, and he had knee and ankle surgery over the off-season.
In Curnow's absence, fellow big man Harry McKay will lead Carlton's attack, but the Blues will be desperate to have one of the league's best forwards available in what shapes as a tough start to the season.
After Richmond, they play Hawthorn on Thursday, March 20, followed by the Western Bulldogs and arch-rivals Collingwood.
Carlton confirmed on Sunday that draftee Camporeale, son of club great Scott Camporeale, and Haynes would debut for the Blues.
Camporeale, who was drafted alongside twin brother Ben, has impressed with his pre-season form on the wing.
Teammate Adam Cerra was hopeful midfielder Sam Walsh (hamstring) would be cleared for round one, noting he had trained strongly, and Curnow would soon be in the mix too.
"We know the calibre of players they are, which obviously makes a big difference," he said.
"But on top of that, they're two of the vice-captains of this group.
"So in terms of the leadership sense, what they provide on the field isn't purely just their football ability, but also the ability to help others and really bring confidence within the group.
"So, we definitely can't wait to have them both there."
The Blues are eyeing a response to last season's meek elimination final loss to eventual premiers Brisbane Lions at the Gabba.
They are adamant they are premiership contenders, but wary of looking too far ahead.
"We believe so, but I think every team does at this point of the year," Cerra said.
"We're fully aware the more we take our eyes off the present, how this game will humble you.
"So, for us, it's just trying to get a good start to the year this Thursday night, staying together, working hard and playing some consistent footy.
"And we know if we do that, the result at the end of the year will look after itself.
"But there's no point looking too far ahead at the moment."
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