Acting Richmond coach Jade Rawlings says Graham Polak is progressing well in his comeback from a life-threatening tram accident a year ago but remains uncertain when or if the former Fremantle star will return to the AFL.

Polak, who has not played at the highest level since almost being killed when struck by a tram after the Tigers' Round 14 loss to Carlton last year, took the biggest step yet in his comeback last week when he was named best player for VFL affiliate Coburg.

However Rawlings said that despite that performance Polak still faced a long road to return to the AFL.

"It's been a long time since he played VFL seniors let alone AFL," Rawlings said when asked about Polak's chances of a senior return.

"That (last week) was only his second game back in the VFL seniors because he spent a long time in the VFL reserves but he performed well the other day."

"His path has been remarkable that he could get to this stage of playing let alone influencing games of VFL footy."

But Rawlings said despite Polak's stunning progress, the club could not say when or if he will play in the AFL again.

"As far as whether he plays the year out (in the VFL or the AFL) it remains to be seen," he said.

"We certainly won't be guaranteeing anything."

Rawlings said he wasn't surprised by Polak's recent form.

"Not really because I have watched him the past couple of weeks and he has been back marking well and building up to that sort of performance," he said.