Essendon has bolstered its ruck division with the arrival of Andrew Phillips from Carlton in the Telstra AFL Trade Period. 

The Bombers secured the 28-year-old, along with picks 61 and 72, in exchange for selections 57 and 70 on Wednesday.

Arriving at Greater Western Sydney via the 2010 rookie draft as a foundation player, Phillips played 14 games for the Giants before seeking a trade to the Blues at the end of 2015.

He made an instant impact at Carlton, playing 16 senior games in 2016 before earning a two-year contract extension in 2017, finishing on 27 games in four seasons.

General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said the Tasmanian would add greater depth to the Bombers’ ruck stocks, supporting Tom Bellchambers and youngster Sam Draper – the latter having recently re-signed until the end of 2023.

"We’re pleased to welcome Andrew Phillips to the red and black family,” Dodoro said.

“We have been transparent about our desire to add another ruckman to our list, and Andrew is a talented tap ruckman.

“After nine years in the AFL system, he will also provide important experience and leadership, alongside Tom Bellchambers, for the development of Sam Draper.”

Phillips’ trade marks the first between the arch-rivals since Justin Murphy’s switch to the Bombers in exchange for Cory McGrath in 2003, with Matthew Allan also arriving at Essendon in the same year.

ANDREW PHILLIPS' BIO

Date of birth: July 3, 1991

Height: 201cm

Weight: 98kg

Drafted from: Lauderdale (TAS)

AFL debut: Round 7, 2012 v Gold Coast

Games: 41

Goals: 15

This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.