Former Bomber Will Setterfield has been given an AFL reprieve after Essendon confirmed his relisting via the SSP on Tuesday.
Setterfield was initially delisted by the Bombers at the end of 2025 due to a squeeze on list spots, but regained his position at Tullamarine as Nic Martin was placed on the inactive list.
Martin was already ruled out for the majority of 2026 after tearing his ACL in Round 18, but a fresh setback caused further scans and ultimately led to follow-up surgery.
Setterfield impressed throughout his time in the red and black, which followed stints at GWS (2017-2018) and Carlton (2019-2022).
The 27-year-old played 27 games for Essendon in three seasons, including 13 in 2025, where he was tasked with curbing the influences of the game's best midfielders, such as Patrick Cripps and Isaac Heeney.
However, Setterfield's season was cut short due to a foot injury.
"Every year you get to wear the Club colours is a privilege, so I'm really grateful for another season in the sash," Setterfield said.
"I look forward to working closely with our High-Performance team on getting my body right. The club's support has been amazing, and we are in a really good spot.
"I want to be ready to give everything for the team in 2026. I can't wait to get back out there with the boys and in front of the Bomber faithful."
List manager Matt Rosa acknowledged the "tough waiting game" for Setterfield since the end of the season.
"We're thrilled for Will. He's had a tough waiting game over the last few months, so it's great to see a well-deserved opportunity open up for him," Rosa said.
"He's been terrific for us in a bunch of different midfield roles over the past few seasons and you just know the level of commitment and effort you're going to get when he's out there.
"Will's a popular member of our squad and the boys are rapt he's got another crack at it this season."
