The Essendon Football Club is pleased to announce key list updates ahead of this month’s NAB AFL Draft on November 28 and 29.

Small forward Jye Menzie has signed a one-year rookie contract, keeping him at the Bombers until at least the end of 2023. Menzie joined the club through pick No.18 in the 2022 NAB Mid-Season Rookie Draft.  

Hailing from Tasmania, Menzie made the move to South Australia in pursuit of an AFL career, before being drafted to the Bombers from SANFL club South Adelaide.

The 19-year-old played two AFL games this season, making his AFL debut in the Bombers’ round 20 match against North Melbourne.

At VFL level, Menzie impressed up forward, kicking 13 goals across his eight games, including a season-high four goals in round 14 against Williamstown.

Menzie said he was thrilled to remain in the red and black.

“I’m so grateful to Essendon for the opportunity to live out my dream of playing AFL football and now I want to repay the faith they’ve shown in me,” Menzie said. 

“I’m eager to work with Brad, the coaching group and my fellow teammates to continue my development and become the best player I can.”

“I look forward to a demanding pre-season with high standards to set us up for this new and exciting chapter of the Essendon Football Club.”

Young midfielder Sam Durham has been upgraded to the Primary List after playing 20 games in 2022.

Durham joined the Bombers through the 2021 NAB AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft and quickly had an impact throughout his seven senior games across his debut season.

He signed a two-year extension in April, 2022 and after averaging more than 15 disposals, four marks and five goals to his name, he has been rewarded with an upgrade to the Senior List.

The club continues to have positive and productive discussions with forward Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti about a return to football.