Essendon has delisted young duo Ben Hobbs and Luamon Lual from its list, informing the pair they won’t be offered deals for 2026.
The Bombers were set to make bulk changes following the inclusion of six players via the SSP and MSD due to the unprecedented amount of long-term injuries they suffered.
Hobbs joined the club in 2021 with the 13th pick in the draft, and played 65 games as a midfield-forward, which included 18 outings this year.
Lual followed suit two years later as he was selected with Pick 39 in 2023. He debuted this year and played 12 games.
“We wish to thank Ben and Luamon for their service to Essendon and their professionalism and dedication throughout their careers. It goes without saying that it’s always difficult with list spots at this time of year, but they leave the club with our very best wishes,” Bombers GM of AFL Daniel McPherson said.
“We have five selections at next month’s AFL Draft, and the list squeeze means some challenging choices had to be made. Both Ben and Luamon have handled the news with maturity, and we applaud them for that.
“We wish each of the lads all the best for the future.”
Will Setterfield has yet to have his future confirmed.
Sam Draper (Brisbane), Alwyn Davey Jr (delisted), Todd Goldstein (delisted), Jayden Laverde (delisted), Jye Menzie (delisted), Dylan Shiel (delisted) and Oskar Smartt (delisted) are other list changes.
