Essendon have signed emerging forward Tom Edwards to an AFL contract following his impressive summer and recent audition at the club.
Edwards was invited to the Bombers with the hope of securing a deal at the top flight, but would compete against recently delisted defender Kaine Baldwin, who was also welcomed back to reprise his role.
The Swan Districts forward - who booted 39 goals in 19 games last year - has been given the nod after his dominant second-half performance in Saturday's match simulation against the Western Bulldogs.
On a windy and rainy day, Edwards entered the contest later in the piece and immediately influenced the match, slotting four goals and being the difference between the two sides.
The outstanding performance from the athletic forward shot him ahead of Baldwin in the race for the Bombers' final list spot.
"Tom is a really promising player and we're thrilled to have him on board for the 2025 season," Bombers list boss Matt Rosa said.
"After landing in Melbourne, his willingness to work and buy into the program has been evident, as well as his unique skillset. Tom has some X-factor and a high-end work rate that we are excited to add to our squad.โ
"Given he's had a different pathway compared to most, it was really exciting getting him into to the Club and he'll add genuine versatility to our forward line with his size, his maturity from senior football, his marking ability, his goal sense and his work ethic as mentioned.โ
Edwards will follow a host of other youngsters who recently joined AFL lists from local or state leagues.
Melbourne is understood to have signed VFL star and Werribee midfielder Jack Henderson while Port Adelaide confirmed the addition of Josh Lai from Melbourne's Southern Football Netball League (SFNL).
The Bulldogs are also weighing up between Southport ruckman Brayden Crossley and Werribee captain Dom Brew, although it is believed that the former is leading the two prospects.
โThis is a real life-changer for me and I just can't wait to officially get into it,โ Edwards said.
โI've already got a strong attachment to the Club having supported the Dons all my life, but to now have an opportunity to finally start my AFL career here is just unbelievable.
โIt's a bit of a jump from juggling teaching with state league footy but I'm ready to grasp it with both hands. It's been great getting to know the boys since I've been here as a train-on and now I just can't wait for the season to get up and running.โ
Edwards joins ex-Lion Jaxon Prior as an SSP recruit for the Bombers ahead of the 2025 season.
