After securing some midfield talent with their early selections in last year’s National Draft, the Bombers were keen to bolster their key position stocks with their later picks.
They did so in the form of former Magpie Michael Hartley and ex-Cat Mitch Brown.
In 2015, Brown had impressed initially in the NAB Challenge with Essendon and then in the VFL with Sandringham.
His form saw him selected in the VFL Team of the Year and a few months later the Bombers picked him up with the 54th pick in the Draft.
Throughout the season, Brown was used in defence and attack.
He kicked 20 goals (third overall at Essendon) but also proved an astute reader of the play when stationed in defence.
Brown played 21 games for the season and finished the year strongly. He collected at least 21 disposals in each of his last four games and in a three-week stretch between rounds 20-22 he averaged 14 marks per game.
He took 18 marks in the match against Geelong, which is the second biggest haul by a Bomber ever.
Capping his strong season, Brown finished in sixth place in the Crichton Medal.
“To Mitch’s credit he’s played well at both ends for us this year,” Essendon Coach John Worsfold said.
“He’s another player that we drafted not really knowing if he would get much of an opportunity this year and he’s taken big steps forward.
“I’m confident that with what he’s learnt from the games this year ... he’ll be a better footballer next year.”
Most marks by an Essendon player
Jake Carlisle 19 vs Collingwood, 2014
Mitch Brown 18 vs Geelong, 2016
Brent Stanton 17 vs Carlton, 2012
Brent Stanton 17 vs Brisbane Lions, 2012
Paul Salmon 17 vs Melbourne, 1992
Ken Fraser 17 vs South Melb, 1965
Max Crow 17 vs St Kilda, 1978
Terry Daniher 17 vs St Kilda, 1979
