Essendon have intensified their push for draft assistance from the AFL, presenting a detailed case they believe is both meaningful and compelling. According to Channel 7's Caroline Wilson, the Bombers are quietly confident despite the league indicating that many of their struggles are self-inflicted.
Bombers' case presented to AFL bosses
Wilson revealed that Essendon president Andrew Welsh, list boss Matt Rosa, and CEO Tim Roberts met with AFL executives Greg Swann and Tom Harley last week to argue for special assistance. The AFL's response was non-committal, but Wilson noted that league officials pointed to the club's failure to capitalize on early draft picks in recent years—a similar criticism made to West Coast last year.
Despite this, West Coast ultimately received assistance, including an end-of-first-round draft pick and additional rookie list spots. Wilson predicts Essendon could secure a similar package: an end-of-first-round pick in 2025 plus extra rookie positions. "They do need help," Wilson said, adding that the Bombers' bid was "fairly meaningful and compelling" based on their short-term and long-term results.
Timing raises questions
Wilson described it as "fascinating" that Essendon are pursuing this assistance before appointing a new coach. The club recently announced a selection panel for the coaching role, comprising Welsh, vice president Anthony Di Pietro, former player Ted Richards, Roberts, and people and culture manager Caroline Monzon.
However, AFL great Luke Hodge noted a notable absence: former Bombers captain Jobe Watson. Hodge pointed out that Watson was part of Melbourne's coaching selection panel that hired Steven King, and his experience could be valuable. "I'm just surprised they haven't put him on the panel considering the whole thing with Essendon is that it has been about wanting Essendon people who understand Essendon culture," Hodge said on Channel 7's The Agenda Setters.
Wilson speculated that Watson might be conflicted when interviewing candidate James Hird, given Hird's role as coach during the supplements scandal that led to Watson's Brownlow suspension. But Hodge countered that everyone on the panel has ties to Hird, including Welsh and Richards, who were former teammates. "They've all had a relationship with James... he's a hero of that football club," Hodge said.
Kane Cornes added that Watson's knowledge of Hird's coaching style could be an advantage in the interview process.
