The Bombers are delighted to announce dynamic youngster Archie Perkins will remain in the red and black for a further two years. 

Joining the club with pick No.9 in the 2020 NAB AFL Draft, Perkins has wasted no time settling in at the NEC Hangar.

The 20-year-old has played 30 games for the Bombers, including 21 in his debut season where he played throughout Essendon’s forward line and midfield. 

Perkins was rewarded with a NAB Rising Star nomination after his round 17 performance last year, where he kicked three goals, collected 18 disposals, laid four tackles and gained 338 metres.

On the back of his impressive debut season, Perkins claimed Essendon’s 2021 Lindsay Griffiths Rising Star Award.

Since then, Perkins has continued his consistent form into his second season, kicking 10 goals and averaging 12.2 disposals per game throughout 2022.

Perkins said he was thrilled to remain at the Bombers for a further two years and was excited by the potential of their young list.

“I’ve loved my time at the Bombers so far and I’m so excited to remain at the club for another two years,” Perkins said.

“We are disappointed at the moment with our on-field results, but I’m very confident that we have a core group of young players who have a lot of potential and will take this club forward.”

General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said Perkins has impressed with his maturity and performances across his first 30 games in the red and black.

“Archie has come into the club and quickly shown his commitment to improving and growing his game to become the best player he can be,” Dodoro said.

“He has huge potential and with his work ethic and maturity, he will be a key player for the Bombers for many years to come.”