Essendon free agent Mason Redman has signed a contract extension with the Bombers, turning down free agency options to recommit with the club.
Redman, one of the last seven remaining restricted free agents in the AFL, was seen as a highly sought-after target for rival clubs, namely Adelaide.
The hard-nosed defender has a been a key piece for the Bombers across recent seasons, enjoying another strong year in his role to find himself in contention for an All-Australian squad selection in 2023.
Redman has signed a five-year extension with the Bombers, which takes him to the end of the 2028 season.
“I've absolutely loved my eight years at the Bombers but it's the potential of this group that excites me the most,” Redman said in a club statement.
“Our team has seen so much improvement this year, but we know we have a long way to go, and we are all committed to working hard to ensure we are all pushing each other to do whatever we can to achieve the ultimate success.
“I couldn't be more impressed by the footy club this year and the environment we are trying to create. I'm optimistic success is just around the corner for this club.”
Redman's re-signing leaves teammate Darcy Parish as Essendon's big name retention target, with the midfielder also a restricted free agent in 2023.
North's Ben McKay, Giant Harry Himmelberg, Port veteran Charlie Dixon, Saint Jade Gresham and Crow Tom Doedee each fall under the same free agency band.
Redman's re-signing also adds to a strong year of freshly-signed contracts at Tullamarine, with Peter Wright and Ben Hobbs among those to have also committed to the club.
