The Bombers are preparing for the NAB AFL National Draft, held over the nights of November 28 and 29 at Marvel Stadium.
Holding picks No.4, 22, 54, 62, 68, 72, and 80 an exciting two nights is ahead of the football club.
Essendon's General Manager of Football Josh Mahoney is looking forward to the prospect of some high standing picks coming up to Monday night.
"There are a lot of things that could play out leading up to the draft and also on draft night, so we’ve got to be on our toes and ready for anything," Mahoney said.
“Obviously pick 4 will be at the high end of the draft, which we’re working through at the moment. And pick 22 is going to be an interesting one, with a pick like that it depends what happens in front of you, so we just have to look at a range of different players."
"To add to that mix at the moment we have some potential father-sons with the Davey twins, and Anthony Munkara."
Alwyn and Jayden Davey both officially nominated Essendon under the father-son rule at the end of October.
The twin sons of former Bombers small forward Alwyn Senior have been in contact with the club for the past year, coming down from the Northern Territory to train with the AFL side during the 2022 season.
Jayden is currently working through his second ACL injury, however, the Bombers will support him through his recovery if selected.
AFL journalist Callum Twomey has put together a phantom draft ranking:
1. George Wardlaw
An explosive midfielder, Wardlaw had an outstanding first half of his season playing with Oakleigh Charges, however his top-age campaign was rocked with hamstring injuries, only playing three games in 2022.
2. Elijah Tsatas
Tsatas won the Oakleigh Charges best and fairest in 2022 after only playing six games as an exciting midfielder who's season was also unfortunately derailed with injury. A 42-disposal game against Eastern Ranges was the highlight of his season.
3. Harry Sheezel
Sandy Dragons draft prospect Sheezel finds any way to hit the scoreboard, sitting as a forward/midfielder Sheezel kicked 49 goals in all competitions this year.
4. Mattaes Phillipou
Woodville/ West Torrens star Phillipou has enjoyed a stellar year in the SANFL. The 190cm midfielder/ forward is touted for his athleticism for his explosive athleticism and versatility and will be a strong consideration at pick four.
5. Aaron Cadman
Key forward Cadman stands at 195cm tall playing for the Greater Western Victoria Rebels this NAB League season.
The left-footer is athletic and smart and is capable at ground level as well as in the air. Cadman finished the NAB League season with 34 goals and was an All-Australian at under-18 level.
6. Bailey Humphrey
Captain of Gippsland Power this year, Humphrey is a valuable asset as a forward/midfielder, his scoreboard impact was profound this year, booting 21 majors in 11 NAB League games including three bags of four.
