30. Kyle Langford:
Kyle Langford enjoyed a fairly successful first year at the Club. Taken with pick number 17 in the 2014 National Draft, Langford enjoyed a strong pre-season playing in two of the Club’s NAB Challenge games and showing a natural ability as a half-forward. The 18-year-old would get his chance early on in the season making his debut against St.Kilda in round two. He made a solid start collecting 12 disposals in a hard fought win. Langford’s best game, however, would come in round 17 against Port Adelaide where his presence as a forward shone through kicking truly for two goals. Later in the season, the Coaches would experiment with playing with Langford on the ball with some success.
31. Dustin Fletcher:
After 23 seasons at the Club, veteran Dustin Fletcher would finally hang up the boots in 2015. The 40-year-old started the season off strongly proving to be as valuable as ever in the backline. He would become the first Bomber and only third player in the AFL to play in 400 games when he ran out against Richmond in round 9. The fairytale would not be complete, however, with the Tigers taking home the win on the day. Despite his best efforts, Fletcher was not able to overcome a persistent abdominal injury which severely limited his mobility and would not play again in 2015.
32. Travis Colyer:
The speedster from Western Australia quickly launched himself into the 2015 season. Colyer showed the value of his explosive speed, proving to be the difference in both the round two win against Hawthorn and the round five win against the Saints. Colyer hit a hurdle midway through the season when scans revealed a ‘hot’ navicular bone in his foot. The 24-year-old would undergo surgery and miss the remainder of the season. His absence was immediately felt, with the team missing the run and carry he provided. Colyer is set to return for the pre-season and will hopefully bit fit and ready to go for round one in 2016.
33. Jayden Laverde:
The Club’s other draft pick from 2014, Jayden Laverde was an exciting prospect in the 2015 season. Laverde was rewarded with senior selection in round 15 after a consistent season for Essendon VFL. He would make the most of his opportunities across the forward line, playing for the remainder of the season. Playing predominantly in the forward line, Laverde’s natural attack on the ball and strong contested work was a great addition to the team mix as the 19-year-old provided some much needed attacking pressure. Like fellow 2014 draftee, Kyle Langford, Laverde was also trialed as an onballer later in the season.
34 Jake Long:
Son of Club Champion Michael, Jake was taken as a rookie at the end of 2014. The Club took a patient approach with Jake seeking to build his experience in Essendon VFL. The 19-year-old fought through an injury interrupted season to finish with 15 games for Essendon VFL averaging eight disposals and four tackles per game. We will hopefully see more of Jake as his development continues.
