Essendon gun shuns free agency, Tasmania with long-term extension

Essendon has locked away Sam Durham until the end of 2032, which puts him beyond his free agency season.

Durham was set to become a free agent at the end of 2028, but the four-year extension has shunned rivals from a potential play.

"I know exactly where I want to be, and that is at the Essendon Football Club," Durham said.

"My focus is entirely on bringing success to this team and our supporters. I didn't want to wait for Free Agency; I wanted to lock in my future right now.

"I have great faith in this list and in Brad [Scott] and the coaches to take us where we need to go. There's a real sense of confidence in the program; we're working hard every day to get better, and I'm just excited to be a part of it.

"From where I started to now being in the leadership group, I'm all in on helping our younger players grow, and I'm pumped to commit my future to the Bombers."

The Bombers' decision to extend the 2021 mid-season draftee also keeps Tasmania at arm's length, ahead of their introduction into the AFL in 2028.

He is now the longest contracted Bomber, and joined Isaac Kako in re-signing at the club in recent weeks.

Kako added two years to his current deal, taking him until the end of 2029.

Durham has emerged as one of the competition's most exciting midfielders, reflected by his toughness and durability.

The 24-year-old has played at least 20 games each year in the past four seasons, tallying 91 matches on the eve of the new campaign.

He was added to the leadership group in 2026, supporting new captain Andrew McGrath.

McGrath will lead a six-man group following Zach Merrett's decision to stand aside. 

Durham, along with Jye Caldwell and Brayden Fiorini, were included as first-timers, while Kyle Langford, Mason Redman and Nic Martin retained their roles.

The news comes as the Bombers completed their first proper hitout of 2026, taking on Richmond at the Hangar on Friday.