Essendon utility Nik Cox has had a tough first six seasons in the AFL after being plucked with pick eight in the 2020 National Draft.
However, in his new role as a key forward, Cox has made a statement in the VFL for Essendon on Sunday.
The 200cm key forward booted an imposing 7.1 from 16 disposals to go along with six marks (three contested) and one screamer in the Bombers' match against Coburg at Windy Hill.
NIK COX SOARING 😱😱😱
🎥: Watch the Smithy's VFL live and free on the AFL website and AFL Live Official App: https://t.co/3V9lTkSGTM pic.twitter.com/cqrqA01z0e— VFL / VFLW (@VFL) July 19, 2026
While Cox seemed to be the most promising out of Essendon's top 10 trio of 2020 draft picks alongside Archie Perkins (pick nine) and Zach Reid (10), he then battled with injury and concussion issues. Playing zero games in 2025.
But Cox seems to have put those issues behind him and is now making a late season charge to prove he is ready to become one of the club's key forwards that will partner budding star Nate Caddy into the future.
There is currently a race between Cox and the likes of Archer May, Peter Wright, Liam McMahon and Tom Edwards for a spot in the forward line with Caddy who just penned a new contract until 2031 in the past week.
Cox's contract runs out at the end of 2026, so a continued run of form will be critical for his football future.
Since being drafted, Cox has played 60 games and kicked 21 goals for the Bombers. He has kicked three goals from seven games in 2026 and last played in Round 17.
