Who's burning up the track at The Hangar? AFL Media's Callum Twomey has his say.

Established gun: Devon Smith is back in training and it's a delight to see for Essendon fans. The hard-edged Bomber was desperately missed last season after succumbing to a knee injury, but he has regained his fitness, speed and tenacity and has been showing genuine intensity on the track. He will be a welcome addition to the Bombers' midfield and forward half next year.

Gen next: Darcy Parish will take confidence out of the way he finished last season, with the ball-getter getting genuine midfield time in the second half of the year and becoming a key player at the stoppages. He has started his pre-season in strong touch as well, impressing those at Essendon with his energy and midfield craft.

New faces: Former Lion Tom Cutler has caught the eye at Essendon since arriving from Brisbane during the Telstra AFL Trade Period. His athleticism and speed off half-back or on the wing was what attracted the Bombers to Cutler, and he has shown that on the track. New Bomber Jacob Townsend is an aggressive beast and has been willing to take that physicality on the track after leaving Richmond.