The team will train today giving Kearney and assistant coach David Kidwell a chance to properly examine the player's fitness before they discuss further options with selectors.
The Kiwis could still add a 19th man - something they have done regularly in recent years - and look to provide the squad with extra halves cover.
Jason Taumalolo was included in the 2012 Anzac test squad but did not play before finally debuting in last year's Four Nations, and Kearney is keen on blooding fringe players and introducing them into the Kiwis systems and team culture.
Such a move could mean the door remains ajar for Broncos utility Kodi Nikorima or Warriors fullback Tuimoala Lolohea to step in, with both players capable of playing numerous positions.
Meanwhile, Taumalolo was not selected after he picked up a medial ligament injury in North Queensland's win over Newcastle on Saturday, with Four Nations winner and Canterbury forward Greg Eastwood chosen to replace him in the No13 jersey.
Adam Blair and Jason Nightingale are the other incumbents to have missed selection while centre Dean Whare was also ruled out with a hamstring strain.
"With Jason Taumalolo getting injured yesterday we've obviously had to find a replacement and we've brought in Greg Eastwood," Kidwell explained.
"We know Greg has been there and done the job before so he's going to make our team strong and I'm sure he's excited to come into the Kiwis camp."
Blair's omission sees Warriors prop Ben Matulino rewarded for his strong early season form, seeing off a strong challenge from Sydney Roosters rival Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, who made a shock return from a pectoral injury to play in Saturday's game against the Dragons.
"Jared's been playing good but we've gone with Benny Mat's and Jesse Bromwich as the front-rowers," Kidwell said.
"We've got a lot of depth now which is a good position to be in."
