Zach Merrett isn’t putting a cap on what the Bombers can achieve this year and he’s taking some inspiration from the side he grew up supporting.

On Saturday night Essendon begins it’s first season since 2012 unencumbered by off-field issues and the team that runs out onto the MCG to take on Hawthorn is likely to feature several returning players.

"I'm a bit nervous to have those guys back but very excited as well … that we genuinely could contend for a premiership this year," Merrett told SEN.

"I think we can (win the flag). I think we believed that before the Dogs did it, but now the Dogs have done it, it just gives everyone that real belief that if you get it right at the right time of the year you can genuinely contend."

If the Bombers are to contend with the top teams, Merrett knows depth will be a key factor.

“Since the older boys have come back from their year off they’re very eager to develop the younger boys," he said.

“It’s not only about them improving, I think they realise we need 30-35 players to be able to play each week to contend against the top eight teams.

“We saw last year the Doggies went through 40 players during the year so that shows how many players you need to be playing good footy.”

Merrett, 21, takes on the Vice-Captaincy this season alongside Cale Hooker and Captain Dyson Heppell. 

"When I walked into the place when I was 18, it was just about trying to influence the place and influence my teammates to try (to) win a premiership," Merrett said. 

"I didn't really think about getting in the leadership group or being a Captain or Vice-Captain of the Club so early, but for that to happen is something very special … hopefully I can influence my teammates towards success."