Essendon have reportedly offered Hawthorn youngster Josh Weddle a deal that spans at least seven years, which would take him through to 2033.
The contract is estimated to be valued at more than a million dollars a year, which would push the total of the deal to be near $10 million in total, per an afl.com.au report.
He is signed until the end of 2026, which would be his fourth season at the Hawks, after being drafted at Pick 18 in the 2022 National Draft by the Hawks.
Weddle has shown his versatility and value at the Hawks, playing in several different positions throughout the season, but playing mainly as a defender, and using his pace and athleticism to rebound the ball off the Hawks’ half-back.
There has been no indication yet that Weddle wants out of the Hawks, but Essendon has clearly identified him as a player of interest to their side.
The Hawks have already re-signed three important players who were out of contract at the end of 2026, with Jai Newcombe, Nick Watson and Connor MacDonald extending past 2026.
The massive offer is also a retaliation to the Hawks’ pursuit of Essendon captain Zach Merrett, and came only days after the end of the trade period.
The Bombers will continue to be aggressive with rival players as they look to further develop the squad.
