Essendon has added another year to the contract of forward Kyle Langford, who becomes the eighth Bomber to be locked away until at least the end of the 2027 season.

Already with a deal for the next three seasons, Langford has signed a one-year extension to join Nic Martin, Zach Merrett, Xavier Duursma, Ben McKay, Peter Wright, Mason Redman and Darcy Parish with long-term deals.

The 27-year-old expressed his delight to be extending his time in the red and black, placing further support bending coach Brad Scott's "vision".

“I've loved my past nine seasons at the Bombers, and I'm excited to have extended my contract to stay at the club until the end of 2027,” Langford said in a club announcement.

“I strongly align with the vision that Brad and the coaches have for the team and the potential of this playing group. We are all committed to working together and pushing one another to become the best athletes and teammates to achieve ultimate success.

“I'm excited for the next four years at Essendon and seeing where this group can go.”

Langford is coming off a career-best season with the Bombers, having booted 51 goals from 23 games last year - booting at least one goal in 21 appearances - to earn an All-Australian squad selection and a second-placed finished in his club's best and fairest count.

A full season alongside fellow tall forward Wright for Langford is sure to excite Bombers fans, with Essendon football boss Dan McPherson noting his delight with the latter's decision to extend his services at Tullamarine.

“Kyle is the ultimate team man, an important member of our playing group and is a key driver in setting the standards and expectations of the playing group – we are delighted that he has extended until the end of 2027,” McPherson said.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 19: Kyle Langford of the Bombers kicks during the round one AFL match between Hawthorn Hawks and Essendon Bombers at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on March 19, 2023, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

“He is a highly diligent and focused person who is determined to get the best out of himself and his teammates.

“Kyle is an outstanding ambassador for our club, and we look forward to seeing him continue to grow in the red and black over the coming years.”

Langford has now played 130 games for the Bombers for a return of 128 goals - having shared his time in the backline as well.

Essendon will face St Kilda and Geelong over the next fortnight in preparation for their Round 1 clash with Hawthorn at the MCG on Saturday, March 16.