Just days after Kyle Langford extended his commitment to the Bombers, midfielder Elijah Tsatas has followed, signing on for a further two years. 

The new deal will see the 19-year-old remain in the red and black until at least the end of 2026. 

Selected with pick five in the 2022 NAB AFL Draft, going on to make his AFL debut in round 21 last year and finishing the season with four games.

After overcoming an injury setback last year, Tsatas said he was excited to get to work and continue developing as an AFL footballer.

“I am super excited about our young core group of players and how committed we are to improving everyday,” Tsatas said.  

“Essendon drafted me, and I have always been incredibly grateful for that. I can’t wait to go forward with this group for at least another two years.

“The coaches have instilled so much confidence in me over this pre-season. It has allowed me to develop my game and body massively, and I have so much more improvement left, which is so exciting.”

At 187cm, Tsatas utilises his height and strength to be explosive throughout contests while also having the aerobic capacity to be impactful on the wing.

General Manager of AFL Daniel McPherson said the club looked forward to seeing Tsatas’ ongoing development over the coming years.

“Elijah is an exciting prospect for us and we are thrilled to have him commit until at least the end of 2026,” McPherson said.

“After an injury-interrupted start to 2023, Elijah demonstrated his impact on the field throughout his four games at AFL level, and we are excited to see where he can take his game this year and beyond.

“He has worked hard across the pre-season to ensure he is continuously learning and developing the skills needed to be an AFL footballer. We look forward to seeing him in the red and black for many years.”