At the end of the 2022 season, Essendon decided to bring in just two players through the trade period. Utility midfielder Will Setterfield was added along with tall forward Sam Weideman.
This year, they're in line for a busier player movement window, but it won't just be players coming in that sees their list reshape.ย With both Darcy Parish and Mason Redman possibly departing the club at the season's end through free agency, replacements could be needed.
The Bombers' success so far in 2023 wasn't predicted, with a top 10 pick seemingly out of the question thanks to their impressive start under Brad SCott. The one area that they have desperately needed is key position talent at either end of the field, and with the possible departures of their two free agents, they'll have money and compensation to spend in 2023.
After a quieter trade period in 2022 for the Bombers, expect them to make some big moves prior to the 2024 season.
SEE ALSO: FIVE TRADE TARGETS FOR ADELAIDE
SEE ALSO: FIVE TRADE TARGETS FOR BRISBANE
SEE ALSO: FIVE TRADE TARGETS FOR CARLTON
SEE ALSO: FIVE TRADE TARGETS FOR COLLINGWOOD
1. Ben McKay
The 25-year-old North Melbourne defender seems to be the player that the Bombers desperately need. McKay has played in 12 out of a possible 17 games due to an injury that ruled him out at the start of the season.
At 202cm tall, McKay would slot into the Bombers' backline providing some much-needed height in the undersized back six. Averaging a career-high 12.3 disposals and 6.4 marks, McKay would provide that tall presence that the Bombers have lacked over the last few years.
With rival clubs also showing interest in McKay, the Bombers will need to make their ambitions known soon before it's too late. He's the best possible free agent that would suit their needs.
Defender
Disposals
Marks
Rebound50s
From McKay's perspective, the possibility of being the key defender in a side such as Essendon has much more appeal than being on the receiving end of a demolition week in, week out...
