Essendon midfielder Kyle Langford has penned a new four-year contract extension to remain at Tullamarine until the end of the 2026 season.
The decision sees the 25-year-old turn his back on free agency and reported interest from Hawthorn, with Langford now set to extend his tenure in the red and black to past a decade.
The Northern Knights product has played 99 games for the Bombers since making his debut in 2015, forging a role as a midfield-forward hybrid.
Currently sidelined after requiring hamstring surgery following the club's Round 1 defeat to Geelong, Langford is on the mend and could return to Ben Rutten's side after the club's mid-season bye.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work with our coaching group this season while I’ve been on the sidelines and one thing that has been clear to me is the hunger across the board to take this group forward,” Langford told the club's website.
“Although the wins aren’t falling our way at the moment, I can see so much potential in our team - that includes the playing group, coaches and staff - and I really believe in the direction we’re heading.
“It’s exciting to be a part of that journey for at least the next four years.”
Langford was understood to have been of interest to Hawthorn this season, but becomes the latest Bomber to recommit as the club continues its signing spree.
In recent weeks Essendon have locked in the futures of emerging talent Zach Reid, Archie Perkins, Nic Martin and Sam Durham, while defensive duo Nick Hind and Jayden Laverde have also re-signed this year.
Essendon will be looking to claim their third victory of the season this weekend when they travel to South Australia to face Port Adelaide on Sunday.
Langford is currently listed to have a short term recuperation before returning to playing.
