Essendon's Dyson Heppell has revealed that he isn't "tied to" the role of captain as he heads into his 13th season at the club.
Heppell signed a new deal with the Bombers to extend his time at the club earlier this year after reported interest from Gold Coast, but has now committed to finishing his career as a one club player, with or without the captaincy.
Speaking on Thursday, Heppell confirmed that he was happy to see someone new step into the role in 2023.
"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time as skipper but I'm not tied to the role at all," Heppell said.
"If the group and the club feel that there's someone else that's better off to lead the group going forward, then I'm more than happy to step down and hand the reins over."
The 30-year-old made his debut for Essendon in 2011, earning Rising Star honours in his maiden campaign. The Bombers veteran has since gone on to play 216 games in red and black.
With plenty of experience behind him, Heppell is committed to help mentor the club's potential new captain, though the makeup of Essendon's leadership group may not be finalised until late February.
"I want to be there still while the next captain comes through to help mentor, help guide and develop them as well," Heppell said.
"We'll see how it all plays out over the next couple of months.
"We're in no rush to make that call but there's certainly some really strong leaders that'll be ready to take the reins."
Zach Merrett and Andrew McGrath have both been mentioned as potential new skippers, with both of the established Bombers forming part of the leadership group in 2022.
