Essendon have made the “difficult” decision to delist veteran midfielder Will Setterfield ahead of the upcoming AFL drafts.
Setterfield, 27, had struggled with injuries throughout his three years at the club but has been a valuable contributor when on the field. The big-bodied midfielder managed 13 games this year and was among the Bombers’ best as he averaged over 20 disposals and seven tackles during a disappointing six-win season.
Essendon will explore the possibility of redrafting Setterfield, but are also happy for him to explore his options elsewhere.
“With the final list lodgement coming today, we’ve made the difficult decision to delist Will ahead of the draft,” footy boss Daniel McPherson said.
“With our five selections this year, the reality is that we couldn’t offer Will a list spot at this stage, but we’re open to providing him an opportunity through the upcoming draft, rookie and SSP period. “Will’s handled a very difficult waiting period like the great character he is. As challenging as it’s been to make the call, we wish him all the best going forward, whether he ends up back with us, or elsewhere.”
Essendon had already delisted Alwyn Davey jnr, Todd Goldstein, Ben Hobbs, Jayden Laverde, Luamon Lual, Jye Menzie, Dylan Shiel and Oskar Smartt, while Sam Draper departed as a free agent. Meanwhile, Richmond have delisted Thomson Dow after six years at the club.
Originally taken with pick No.21 in 2019, Dow played 45 games in his time at the club. He did manage the first 11 this year before a knee injury ended his season prematurely. “Thomson was very unlucky to miss the second half of the season through injury,” Richmond footy boss Blair Hartley said.
“Unfortunately, this time of year, we need to make hard decisions, and we were unable to offer Thomson a list spot for 2026.
“We thank Thomson for his hard work during his six years with us. His attitude was always first class, and we wish him well for his future.” Adelaide and Gold Coast also made list changes with Tyler Welsh and Ben Jepson let go, but both players will be redrafted by their respective clubs as rookies.
