Essendon young gun makes statement, star midfielder back to best in practice match win over Richmond

Third-year Essendon forward Nate Caddy looks primed for a breakout season after a standout performance in the club's match simulation against Richmond.

Caddy kicked four goals and classily set up Darcy Parish in the second quarter. His scoreboard impact was set up by strong aerial impact, often matched up on Richmond's Josh Gibcus.

The Bombers will be desperate for Caddy to significantly contribute in 2026 to ease the pressure on Kyle Langford, who managed just nine games last year due to injury.

Caddy had his own injury concerns last year, missing the last five games of the season due to persistent groin issues which also affected the early part of his pre-season.

But he's set to attack 2026 full tilt, looking dynamic and potent.

Winger Xavier Duursma backed Parish to return to his All-Australian best in 2026, and he backed up the statement with Friday's strong showing.

Two early clearances laid the foundation for a clean midfield display, well complemented by Sam Durham and Jye Caldwell.

Caldwell, in particular, put forward a balanced four-quarter display, linking up well and winning plenty of the footy.

Archie Roberts rotated into the middle, having spent time training in the engine room throughout pre-season, and he was comfortable in traffic and backed himself with ball in hand. Dyson Sharp also got his hands on the ball in the middle after starting as a half-forward.

The midfield group was well serviced by Lachie Blakiston, who comfortably won the ruck battle, with his athleticism getting the better of hulking Richmond skipper Toby Nankervis

Harry McKay was impenetrable in defence.

Meanwhile, Elijah Tsatas was outside the under-strength squad of 30, prompting concern about where he sits in the Bombers' plans for 2026.

Taken with pick five in the 2022 draft, he has managed just 16 games through three seasons.

There were plenty more positives for Essendon. The fruits of a big pre-season showed for Max Kondogiannis early. Jacob Farrow's ball use was typically sensational. Jaxon Prior's move to the wing looks a shrewd one. Zak Johnson was ultra clean off half-back. Zach Reid will take some confidence from the game. Kyle Langford kicked three goals and provided great support to Caddy.

It was a convincing 50-point win for the Bombers after a wobbly start.

For Richmond, sizzling Sam Grlj's dare and speed off half-back broke the game open on several occasions.
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Patrick Retschko worked into the game well, while developing ruck Ollie Hayes-Brown showed improved craft.

Tim Taranto, Jack Ross and Sam Lalor were in the starting midfield.

The latter took a massive mark in the first quarter and moved powerfully in the first half before being managed thereafter.