Essendon's heavy draft focus has been rewarded for the first time this year, with draftee Jacob Farrow claiming the week's Rising Star nomination.
Pick 10 in last year's National Draft, Farrow played a key role in Brad Scott's backline during a Gather Round clash with Melbourne, registering 22 disposals (16 kicks, six handballs) at 82 per cent efficiency, and taking 12 marks.
A proud West Australian, Farrow represents the dormant powerhouse's first Rising Star nomination since livewire Isaac Kako claimed the honours in Round 17 of 2025.
Drafted out of the WAFL, Farrow dominated at Colts level for West Perth, and Bombers fans were eager to see him make his mark in a rebuilding year for the club. It has taken just three games for him to do so.
Farrow is one of three prized first round draft selections Essendon made at last year's event, joined by South Australian Dyson Sharp, and lifelong Bombers fan, Sullivan Robey.
All three of the young men have debuted already this season, as the club look to unhitch themselves from the mediocrity they have become associated with in recent years.
In defeating Melbourne on the weekend, the Bombers avoided a piece of unwanted history - a loss would have been 18 games straight, enough for outright first in their fabled existence.
