It has been reported that Essendon leader Mason Redman, contracted until the end of 2028, "weighed up a trade request earlier this year", with at least three clubs, including both Port Adelaide and Adelaide, "were made aware" of his potential intention to leave.
The news comes shortly after Redman condemned captain Zach Merrett for meeting with Hawthorn, as he explores his future away from the Bombers.
"It's (a feeling of) disappointment that our captain, who is supposed to be leading us through this, is exploring other options," Redman told AFL Media.
Three Essendon figureheads (coach Brad Scott, chief executive Craig Vozzo and president Dave Barham) all stated recently that Merrett would not be traded under any circumstances.
But according to Channel 9's Tom Morris, Redman was "frustrated" with the state of the club and was floated around the competition.
Mason Redman is contracted until the end of 2028, but at least three clubs - including both from his native SA - were made aware that he was frustrated and weighing up a trade request earlier this year.
They were asked whether they’d be interested in bringing him in. As far as…
— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) September 16, 2025
However, SEN's Sam Edmund reported that Redman is "committed to Essendon", with manager Ben Williams indicating his stance.
It comes as free agent Sam Draper will depart the club and head north to Brisbane.
Injury-prone defender Jordan Ridley wants to join Draper at the Lions, but is under contract for another four seasons, and has indicated he wants a fresh start.
Key defender Jayden Laverde also recently completed a medical at GWS, and is set to join the Giants, and reunite with former teammate Jake Stringer.
Essendon are yet to confirm Laverde's intentions of departing, while Alwyn Davey Jnr (delisted), Jye Menzie (delisted) and Dylan Shiel (delisted) have already left the club.
