Essendon recruit Sam Weideman is excited by the prospect of partnering with Peter Wright in the Bombers’ forward line for 2023.

Joining the club from Melbourne via this year’s trade period, Weideman’s move adds a new dynamic to a youthful Dons list.

The 25-year-old holds plenty of enthusiasm over slotting into Essendon’s forward line, and is ready to grasp his opportunity at a second AFL club.

“To see Peter’s development over the last two years is amazing and encouraging as well. I’m hoping I can follow in his footsteps and create a nice partnership down there,” Weideman said.

An athletic 195cm tall, Weideman’s versatility and history also invites the idea of playing in multiple positions, something the key position player is happy to entertain.

“Primarily I want to be a forward, but I’m very open to playing in the backline as well,” Weideman said.

“I think my best footy will be up forward and pinch hitting in the ruck. Rucking in the VFL throughout the finals gave me huge confidence in that role, so if there’s a spot to take that chance, I definitely will.”

After 59 games for Melbourne in seven seasons, Weideman is eager for more senior opportunities and gaining them in one of the competition’s youngest sides ultimately sealed his choice to start fresh.

“What appealed to me was the list. There’s so much talent and it’s quite a young one too, so I think we’re going to get the most out of ourselves, there’s a really successful period coming up,” Weideman said.

As the club looks ahead to a neat hand in this year’s national draft and an improved 2023 campaign under new senior coach Brad Scott, Weideman himself brings a strong desire to maximise his potential.

Since his string of breakout performances in Melbourne’s 2018 finals run, Weideman found himself unable to break into a strong Demons side.

The experience has only fuelled his fire to lock down a spot at his new club as he enters the prime of his career.

“My career has been up and down. I’ve played some pretty good footy, but it didn’t quite click over there,” Weideman said.

“I think in coming to Essendon, I have a lot to offer the club. I wanted to take that next leap in my career and take it to the next level with some talented guys here. It’s a nice change and I’m really excited for it.”