Essendon young gun Zach Reid has penned a three-year extension with the Bombers, recognised for his excellent 2025 season.
Reid has overcome a plethora of injuries since being selected 10th in the 2020 National Draft, including a severe hamstring injury that prevented him from playing any AFL games in the 2023 season. He's featured in 10 matches in 2025 so far and averaged 15.4 disposals per game, 7.7 marks (4th in the AFL, minimum five games played) and 4.6 spoils (first amongst Bombers players).
โI'm incredibly grateful the club stood by me, and I'm so happy I could repay their trust," Reid said.
โI really believe in where this club is headed, and I'm genuinely excited about what this group can achieve together. I love working with this playing group, coaches and all staff; we've got so much potential, and I'm keen to see us truly reach it."
โEssendon is a great club with a proud and rich history. This club means so much to me, and the chance to continue playing in front of our amazing, passionate fans โ who turn up every single week, no matter what โ that's something truly special. Their unwavering support is a huge part of why I wanted to stay and why I believe in what we're building here.โ
Essendon's general manager of list and recruiting Matt Rosa has been impressed with Reid's season to date and looks forward to seeing his potential unfold.
โZach is an incredibly talented young defender who has shown true resilience to deliver high quality performances this season. We knew if he could get his body right, then these types of performances would come,โ Rosa said. "He's demonstrated the ability to overcome challenges, which truly speaks to his character and dedication."
"We see him as a key player for our Club for a long time, and the contract extension is a vote of confidence in what he's building both on and off-field at the Bombers."
Reid emerged as Essendon's key defender of the future in their statement win against Sydney in Round 9 where he posted 27 disposals, 14 marks and seven spoils. While he suffered another hamstring injury in Round 11, he is expected to return in 3-4 weeks' time.
