Essendon wishes to advise that rookie Jaiden Hunter won’t receive a playing contract for the 2025 season.

First arriving with pick No.9 in the 2023 mid-season rookie draft from Perth Football Club, the key forward didn’t manage to appear at VFL or AFL level this season after suffering a season-ending ACL injury during match simulation in January.

More recently, Hunter has returned to Perth to undergo back surgery and in consultation with the club, it was decided that the best course for the 22-year-old would be to take a small break from football and concentrate on getting his body right after a frustrating few years with injury.

GM - AFL Daniel McPherson thanked Hunter for his time with the club.

“Jaiden has worked extremely hard during his time at Essendon but ultimately his body has let him down," McPherson said.

"We’re very disappointed he didn’t get a good run at it as he showed great potential in his time with us. He has been resilient through challenging times and remains very dedicated to being the best footballer he can be, we wish him the best for his future back in Perth.”