The Bombers are excited to welcome more big names onto their VFL list for 2023.

Former Western Bulldogs defender Brad Lynch has signed on with the VFL side after training this AFL pre-season as a trial SSP prospect.

Lynch was selected at pick No.11 in the 2016 Rookie Draft and played nine AFL games for the Western Bulldogs between 2018-20.

The halfback will help Essendon’s defence with his speed and reliable kicking skills.

VFL Football Manager Bernard Shepheard believes Lynch will bring experience to the side’s young group.

“Brad’s experience at the highest level provides great leadership for our young VFL group. This, coupled with his flexibility on field, makes Brad a terrific acquisition,” Shepheard said.

Joining Lynch is a familiar name in Tom Wallis, who returns to Essendon having previously been a father-son selection in the 2015 Rookie Draft at pick 54.

Son of 2000 Premiership player, Dean, Wallis recently spent time in the WAFL with East Perth but has returned to Melbourne and subsequently joined his boyhood club.

“To have Tom come back to the club, a past AFL-listed player and the son of a former Essendon Premiership player is a fantastic story for the Wallis family and for the club,” Shepheard said.

The news comes after former 115-game midfielder Tom Phillips and talented key back Jack Cleaver signed on with the Bombers.

The VFL officially kicks off on March 26, where Essendon will face off against GWS Giants at the NEC Hangar.