Essendon veteran Dyson Heppell will play on again next season, putting pen to paper on a one-year contract extension at Tullamarine.
The former skipper's footballing future was clouded as his current contract expires at the end of this season; those questions have been put to bed for another year.
Signing on for Essendon's 2024 campaign, the midfielder-turned-defender will participate in a 14th AFL season after playing 21 out of a possible 22 games in 2023.
The 233-gamer, while a reliable disposer of the ball across Brad Scott's half-backline, has also played an integral role in continuing to guide Essendon's younger team members.
"We've got an exciting crop of players coming through the club who have been fantastic this year," Heppell said in a club media release on Tuesday morning.
"Rolling into the club every day alongside them, all with the drive to develop and get better, is such a motivating factor in me going around again.
"I've loved my footy this year but especially enjoyed seeing my teammates grow and improve. I can't wait to see the development continue throughout the group in 2024."
Bombers list boss Adrian Dodoro praised Heppell's leadership traits even after relinquishing the club's captaincy position to Zach Merrett.
"Although Dyson no longer holds an official leadership position within the team, the guidance and support he provides to his fellow teammates is extremely valuable to our young side," Dodoro said as part of Tuesday's club release.
"His passion and love for the Essendon Football Club is immense, and he has been an instrumental figure around the club for many years.
"We are thrilled to have Dyson remain at the club, not only for his contribution on the field but for his impact on the wider club."
After a Round 23 trouncing at the hands of the Giants last weekend, Essendon's 2023 finals hopes are all but dashed pending a miracle at the MCG this Friday night against ladder-leader Collingwood.
