How will the returning Bombers fare?
The biggest question and the hardest to answer. Coach John Worsfold won't be expecting them all to blitz, but will be hoping they can get through unscathed without any injury concerns ahead of round one. Tom Bellchambers (knee) and Cale Hooker (hamstring) might not play much in the JLT Community Series, but the other eight returning Bombers should feature regularly. 

Will we see No.1 pick Andy McGrath? 
McGrath has been quiet in the Dons' most recent intraclub games, and the Bombers will steer him through his debut season carefully. But there is an anticipation for Essendon to unveil its first ever No.1 draft pick, and McGrath is good enough to play right away. He's likely to get a chance during the pre-season competition, where his pace and smarts will be deployed across half-back. 

How will the Bombers' fleet of small forwards work together?
Scoring has been an issue for the Bombers for several years, not just in 2016 with their depleted list. But this year the club has assembled a cast of exciting, quick and dangerous small forwards who could create some troubles for rivals. Orazio Fantasia has his name on a forward pocket spot and Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti has shifted forward. Former Lions rover Josh Green looks fit and has a presence, while Travis Colyer's pace and creativity was sorely missed last year.