Essendon midfielder David Zaharakis is waiting for the AFL's new collective bargaining agreement to be finalised before signing a new contract.

The 27-year-old will become a restricted free agent when his deal with the Bombers expires at season's end.

Zaharakis said the unresolved collective bargaining agreement was delaying his contract talks.

"The reason why I haven't signed or anything is more the fact the CBA hasn't been done yet," Zaharakis told Channel Seven on Sunday.

"A lot of players are in the same boat where we're still waiting for that to be finalised, and you still don't know what all that (means) in terms of contracts and money and all that stuff for next year."

Zaharakis has played 159 games, including all 12 this season, since making his debut in round two, 2009.

The 180cm ball-winner was quick to pledge his allegiance to the club.

"I'm an Essendon person – I love being at the footy club," Zaharakis said.

"I've been there for nine years now and been an Essendon supporter as a kid."