The Bombers have been forced into a rebuild that they weren't really planning for thanks to a horror four-year stretch.

They will finish either last or second last on the ladder this season and get another early draft choice into their list, which has some high-end young talent.

Darcy Parish
Parish has been outstanding in his debut season at Essendon, averaging 21 disposals and being a strong candidate for the NAB AFL Rising Star. Already he is one of the club's best midfielders and most popular players with fans. He is contracted to the end of next year, but the club has started talks to extend his stay.

Zach Merrett
The midfielder has stepped up this season to be one of the leading ball-winners in the competition (he is ranked eighth after round 18).  Looms as a long-term star and leader of the club despite only being in his third AFL season. Locked in at the Bombers until the end of 2018.

Joe Daniher
Daniher is set to claim his third-straight leading goalkicker award this year with 30 goals so far from 17 games. The key forward is vital in Essendon's plans for the next decade, with hopes he can become a spearhead for the club.