Former St Kilda and Essendon swingman Jake Carlisle is set to return to the field in 2023 after deciding to sign on with Essendon District Football League club Craigieburn as a player.

Carlisle was already tied to the Eagles as an assistant coach, helping the club in their off-field department after requiring a year on the sidelines following his retirement from the AFL.

The 31-year-old is now set to pull the boots back on next year, returning to the field for the club he played for as a junior.

"The Craigieburn Football Club are excited to announce that ex AFL player, Jake Carlisle will pull on the boots for the first time post career, in 2023," a club post reads.

"Jake is ready to move into a playing role to tie in with his assistant coaching duties after a year on the sidelines.

"We look forward to seeing Jake back on field at DS Aitken Reserve."

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 18: Jake Carlisle of the Saints looks on during an AFL media opportunity at RSEA Park on July 18, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Carlisle initially signed with Craigieburn ahead of the 2022 season, just months after calling time on his 151-game career in the AFL.

The forward-turned-defender played 85 games for Essendon before being traded to St Kilda in 2015, where he played 66 games in six seasons.

Craigieburn finished second last in the EDFL's second division, recording two wins from their 18 matches.