Essendon will not offer veteran ruck Todd Goldstein and key defender Jayden Laverde new contracts for 2026, and expect both to seek opportunities elsewhere to continue their AFL career.
Laverde will reportedly sign with the GWS Giants for 2026 after he was spotted during the week meeting with the club to undergo a medical assessment. The Herald Sun reported that he will take up a rookie list spot with GWS to help boost their defensive stocks, as the club is set to lose Leek Aleer to St Kilda in the off-season.
The 29-year-old has tallied 145 games in the red and black since being drafted in 2014, starting his career as a forward before being swung to the backline.
Todd Goldstein's AFL future is unclear, though the 37-year-old has impressed strongly in 2025 following the injury crisis at the Bombers which required him to become their number one ruck option for 16 games.
He averaged 26.7 hitouts per game, with nearly 30% of his ruck contest wins hit to advantage.
"We're very grateful for both Jayden and Todd's contributions in their time at the Football Club," Essendon's GM of AFL Daniel McPherson said.
"These decisions are always really difficult, especially in the cases of two players who've been incredibly serviceable.
"Jayden's fight, leadership and courage down back were always highlights of his game and he was dependable whenever called upon.
"For Todd to come in and be as great a mentor as he has for our young players - and especially our rucks - in addition to contributing on-field speaks volumes of his impact.
"We wish both players and their families all the best for the next chapter in their careers."
With the pair's departure, there are now six confirmed list changes for Essendon ahead of 2026. Notably Jye Menzie and Alwyn Davey Jnr were delisted earlier this month and star ruck Sam Draper confirmed his desire to exit the Hangar via free agency and is set to join Brisbane when the free agency window opens on October 3.
