Recently departed Essendon midfielder Ben Hobbs has signed with VFL outfit Port Melbourne following his stint in the AFL.
Hobbs saw the end of his spell with the Bombers arise at the cessation of the 2025 season, ending a four-year run that saw the Horsham junior play 65 career games.
It was an unfortunate conclusion for both parties, with Hobbs selected 13th overall in the 2021 AFL Draft.
The 22-year-old played at least 17 games in three of his four campaigns in the red and black, including an equal career-best 18 appearances this year.
With Essendon home to a long list of inside midfield options, Hobbs was often required to play in the front half of the field, seeing his impact limited.
The young ball winner is now set for the VFL to continue his career, having locked in a move to the Borough for 2026.
"Ben Hobbs joins Port Melbourne in 2026 in what is a massive signing for the club," a club post read.
"Arriving from the Essendon Football Club, Hobbs brings a powerful, big-bodied presence through the midfield and the versatility to push forward and make an impact on the scoreboard.
"His competitiveness, strength and proven ability at AFL level will add a significant boost to the Borough's engine room."
Hobbs joins a handful of ex-teammates at North Port Oval, with former Essendon names in Dyson Heppell, Kaine Baldwin, Tex Wanganeen, Jayden Davey and Tom Hird all listed at Port Melbourne this year.
The Borough have enjoyed a strong off-season of retention and recruitment, having added ex-AFL names in Oliver Sestan and Connor Downie to their list.
Port Melbourne managed just the six wins during the 2025 season to finish 17th on the VFL ladder.
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