Essendon are often busy each and every trade and free agency window, and 2024 looks set to be no different as the Bombers assess the open market in a bid to strengthen their list.
The Dons had a successful off-season last year, recruiting Ben McKay, Jade Gresham and Todd Goldstein via free agency before swooping on Port Adelaide wingman Xavier Duursma in a trade that saw key defender Brandon Zerk-Thatcher head to Alberton.
The club's list changes, coupled with the development of their emerging ranks, have seen Brad Scott's side rise into flag contention - sitting in reaching distance of second place on the ladder.
But still some margin from the summit, how will Essendon utilise this year's player movement space to further craft their flag credentials for the years to come?
We've assessed the list of needs at Essendon and the players the Bombers could target in 2024.
OTHER TRADE TARGETS:ย ADELAIDE,ย BRISBANE,ย CARLTON, COLLINGWOOD
3. Joe Richards
Still unsigned for next year and said to be in the sights of rival clubs already, Richards' three games in the top flight could be enough to know the mature-aged recruit is AFL material.
The Wangaratta product endured impressed in the VFL during his first campaign with Collingwood last year and has since taken the next step to feature under coach Craig McRae in 2024, making his debut in Round 9 against West Coast.
Richards has averaged 17.33 disposals per game and booted one goal in each performance to look at ease at senior level just three games into his career.
His debut came at a time when the Magpies were without premiership staples Beau McCreery and Jamie Elliott and recruit Lachie Schultz, with Richrds potentially on the fringes of selection with a fully fit squad.
With such a long small forward pecking order at the Magpies, would Richards consider a switch to Essendon where he could be a first-team start each week?
