Ireland midfielder Jack Crowley will make his first start of the year's Guinness Six Nations in Round 5 in Italy on Saturday.
Amid speculation he could join Leicester from Munster at the end of the season, Crowley will replace Sam Prendergast as part of six changes made by manager Simon Easterby.
The 25-year-old played every minute of Ireland's 2024 title campaign, while Leinster playmaker Prendergast, 22, has started the last six Test matches.
Returning are wide men James Lowe and Mac Hansen, as well as centre Garry Ringrose, who was selected to replace Bundee Aki after his suspension.
In the forward group, James Ryan replaces Joe McCarthy in the second row, with Jack Conan replacing Peter O'Mahony at wide receiver.
Tighthead's Tadhg Furlong is preparing for his first Ireland cap since last year's tour of South Africa after being dropped with hamstring and calf problems.
O'Mahony and his retiring colleague Conor Murray will play their final Test matches from the bench.
Ireland's all-time cap holder (137), professional Cian Healy, looks set to play his final international after being left out of the squad and Jack Boyle replacing Andrew Porter.
McCarthy, O'Mahony, Prendergast and Ackie are dropped to the bench, where Gus McCarthy is also on the bench.
Following a 42-27 home defeat to France last weekend, Ireland are left with only the barest chance of winning a historic third successive Six Nations title.
The two-time champions must secure a win in Rome and also hope for upsets by second-placed England and leaders France in their matches with Wales and Scotland respectively.
Ireland interim manager Easterby said: “We've had a bit of a refresh in the squad this week and it's a big boost to see some players coming back from injury and some who have been looking forward to their chance to start.
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