Essendon have provided another boost to their VFL squad with the signing of former St Kilda player Jack Peris.

The 20-year-old joins the Bombers for the 2024 season after training with the Gold Coast Suns’ AFL squad prior to the new year.

Peris is excited to continue his career within a developing group at the NEC Hangar.

“This is a really exciting opportunity and I’m looking forward to getting stuck into it,” Peris said.

“The club is creating a healthy environment around its VFL program and that’s been really apparent to me early in the piece. I feel this is the best spot for me to push my footy forward and slot well into a building team.”

The son of Olympic Gold Medallist Nova Peris and the late 200-metre national sprint champion Daniel Batman, Peris shares similar traits with his elite speed and an appetite for defensive pressure.

Initially selected by the Saints as a Category B rookie ahead of the 2022 season, Peris’ consistent performances with the club’s VFL affiliate Sandringham led to an AFL debut in round 18 of the 2023 season against the Suns.

Peris accumulated 13 disposals and four tackles in his first taste of AFL action, showing the defensive traits and athleticism that make him a tantalising prospect.

Entering the Bombers’ list alongside former AFL-listed talents in Xavier O’Neill and Jackson Hately, Peris will bring flair and versatility to a growing mix of players under new Senior Coach Blake Caracella.