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
4. Chad Wingard
Collingwood came calling for Wingard last year in what was a bold play by the premiers, and it could be a move Essendon mulls this year.
Wingard is still working his way back from an Achilles injury that ended his 2023 season. The Hawks decided to delist the Port Adelaide best and fairest winner with intentions to re-select him as a rookie, with the Magpies making a late move for the veteran half-forward given the risky list manoeuvre.
Since his last game in the brown and gold, Wingard's reliance in Sam Mitchell's side is likely to have taken a hit given the arrivals of Jack Ginnivan and Nick Watson, while Dylan Moore is enjoying a breakout year and Luke Breust continues to press his case.
With Wingard eligible as an unrestricted free agent at season's end, would Essendon consider a play for the crafty attacking threat?
His experience and upside as a free-signing option could provide some spark in the Bombers' front half as they look to sharpen their spear.
