Essendon midfielder Sam Durham is the latest Bomber to recommit to the club on a long-term deal. The 2021 Mid-Season Draft addition will extend his stay at Tullamarine until the end of the 2028 season.
Durham first joined the Bombers out of Richmond's VFL program as a mid-year rookie addition following a strong start to the year at the state league level.
The Seymour product made his AFL debut by July of that year and would feature in a further six games in his maiden campaign - including the club's elimination final against the Western Bulldogs.
Now a staple in Brad Scott's side and with 51 career games to his name, Durham's time in the red and blue is set to extend into an eighth season at the very least under his new deal.
The 22-year-old joins the likes of Kyle Langford, Nic Martin, Zach Merrett, Xavier Duursma, Ben McKay, Peter Wright, Mason Redman and Darcy Parish in being signed to the red and black until 2027 or further.
"It's pretty surreal to sign with this great club," Durham said in a club statement.
"Coming from getting picked up on the rookie list to signing a two-year deal and now a four-year deal, it's massive, not only for me but also for my family.
"It was very special to call Mum up and give her the good news. I do this not only to play footy but to make my family and Mum proud. She drove me across the countryside for a good part of 18 years, so it's awesome to get this new deal, especially for Mum.
"It's good to be part of the core group going forward, with the likes of Darcy, 'Junior' [Merrett], Mason, and 'Rids' [Ridley] all committing long-term. We now know we will play a lot of footy together and can build a strong foundation for the team.
"Brad has been huge for me in giving me confidence in my game. Brad and 'Gia' [Daniel Giansiracusa] are strong in pushing me to do more for the team, so they've both been massive for my development and confidence.
"Bombers fans are awesome. You've always looked after me in my short time here and I can't wait to see you all at games in the future."
Durham has started the 2024 season positively, averaging 17 disposals, 4.5 tackles, 3.5 inside 50s and eight contested possessions per game - all career highs.
The Bombers will take on St Kilda for their third game of the year, with the two side meeting at Marvel Stadium on Saturday at 4:20pm (AEDT)
