As long as you don't get any old oil in the new filter, guess that would work. I always put fresh oil in the filter, so it's at least half full. That way on initial startup there's new oil going into the pump (at least that's what Dad said anyway). As I'm doing this, I put some on the gasket and in the mounting threads.
One time getting a stuck filter off, I had to use a chain pipe wrench (piece of square tube with what looks like a timing/ bicycle chain on it, twist to make tighter). I think the one Dad had came from Lisle, lots of companies have something similar. Another time on our 84 square Burb, I had to use a screwdriver and a hammer to get the filter off.
Worst one was a Ford Windstar minivan (old work's company van). That one required about half the toolbox to get removed, came off in 4 pieces IIRC. And no room whatsoever to work didn't help! I think that's when we got the chain wrench.....think I had to beat the base off with a long drift punch and a big hammer!