Forward Kyle Langford has signed a one-year contract extension to see him through with the Bombers until at least the end of 2027.

Langford joins, Xavier Duursma, Nic Martin, Peter Wright, Mason Redman, Ben McKay, Darcy Parish and Captain Zach Merrett in committing to Essendon until at least the end of 2027.

Having initially signed a four-year deal in mid-2022, Langford is excited to further commit to the red and black.

“I’ve loved my past nine seasons at the Bombers, and I’m excited to have extended my contract to stay at the club until the end of 2027,” Langford said.

“I strongly align with the vision that Brad and the coaches have for the team and the potential of this playing group. We are all committed to working together and pushing one another to become the best athletes and teammates to achieve ultimate success.

“I’m excited for the next four years at Essendon and seeing where this group can go.”

Entering his 10th AFL season, the 130-gamer has established himself as a focal point of the Bombers’ forward line with his aggressive leading patterns and pinpoint accuracy in front of goal.

Langford certified himself as a regular starter as far back as the 2018 season, floating between midfield and high forward roles to best utilise his elite aerobic capacity and versatile size.

Initially poised to float between defensive and midfield duties in 2023, an injury to Peter Wright on the eve of the season saw Langford thrown into a makeshift key forward role to stellar effect, eventually booting 51 goals and dishing off 20 direct goal assists in a breakthrough year.

Playing all 23 games last season, the 27-year-old was rewarded with a runner-up finish in the Crichton Medal and a spot in the All-Australian squad of 40, heralded as one of the competition’s biggest improvers.

General Manager of AFL Daniel McPherson said the club was thrilled to have Langford extend his commitment.

“Kyle is the ultimate team man, an important member of our playing group and is a key driver in setting the standards and expectations of the playing group – we are delighted that he has extended until the end of 2027,” McPherson said.

“He is a highly diligent and focused person who is determined to get the best out of himself and his teammates.

“Kyle is an outstanding ambassador for our club, and we look forward to seeing him continue to grow in the red and black over the coming years.”

The Bombers are set for their first practice match against the Saints at RSEA Park this Friday as they gear up for the 2024 season.