James Kelly is yet to make a formal decision on whether he will put the boots on again in 2017.

The 32-year old was lured out of retirement earlier this year when he received the call from the Club to join the Bombers for the 2016 season.

A star at Geelong, Kelly played in all three premierships during the Cats’ dominant era before retiring at the end of 2015. 

Kelly had started a job with the AFL when he was approached by the Bombers, and was slightly reluctant to return to the game. 

“I wasn’t a yes straight away,” Kelly said on Channel 7’s Game Day program.

“When I first got the call, I was happy to sit down and hear what Essendon had to say. 

“From my point of view I was focused just on my next career at the AFL. 

“I was really lucky that (the AFL) spoke to me and said they were really supportive if that was something that I wanted to do, if I wanted to play at Essendon they would support me in that.”

Any doubts that Kelly, or anybody else may have had about his ability to play on, have been quickly silenced.

The ex-Cat has been more than an important part of the team, with his experience, skill and attitude crucial in helping many of the younger Bombers develop this year.

His role as somewhat of an ‘on field coach’ has only been strengthened by his overwhelming ability to lead by example. 

Kelly ranks among the top players at the Club across a number of key statistics, and is currently averaging 26.3 disposals per game. Six more than he did throughout his 13-year tenure at the Cats.

With his body still holding up, the obvious question is whether Kelly will decide to go around once more at the conclusion of this season. 

“When I first started I was a little unsure, my body didn’t feel great when I first started. At this point of the year I’m really happy I decided to play again,” Kelly said.

“At this stage, the plan is to go back (to the AFL) in November and slot back into it.

“I’d have to at least consider (playing on). 

“It’s not that easy for me. I’m 32 and I have a family. It’s not just the romance of playing on another year just because I can.

“I have to make a lot of decisions and there are a few conversations I have to have before that decision gets made, if it ever has to be made.” 

For the time being, however, Kelly is simply enjoying playing at the top level at the Club he grew up supporting. 

“I still remember meeting Bomber at the draft when I got picked up by Geelong,” Kelly said.

“I was more excited about meeting Bomber than I was about getting drafted, because I had Essendon jumpers on my wall and that sort of stuff.

“Now getting coached by Mark Harvey as well, it’s really good.”

A fan and team favourite for his light-hearted and humourous manner away from the game, Kelly has quickly become a big part of the Essendon fabric. 

Regardless of his decision, there would be many supporters hoping that he continues on with the Club in 2017 and continues to help the young Bombers develop on and off the field.