Essendon has informed veteran defender James Gwilt that he will not be offered a new contract in 2017.
Gwilt played 26 games for the Bombers after moving from St Kilda at the end of 2014, where he spent ten seasons and played 126 games.
“James is a great person and has helped develop and mentor our young defenders since arriving at the Club,” General Manager of Football Operations, Rob Kerr, said.
“In light of the challenges we faced with our list this season, James stepped up and played a vital role for us both in the backline and with our leadership group.
“James is well respected by his teammates, in his two seasons at Essendon he’s been a positive contributor to the professional environment and standards we have established within the football department, and he will always be welcome at the Essendon Football Club.
“On behalf of everyone at the Club we wish James his partner all the very best for the future."
Get set for the footy with the FREE Zero Hanger 2026 AFL Season Guide! Packed with 150+ pages of player profiles, team previews, insights and analysis, the 2026 AFL Season Guide is built for fans who want the full picture. Download your free Season Guide HERE.
