No stranger to The Hangar, the Bombers have selected Matt Dea with pick 17 in the rookie draft.

The 27-year-old defender began his career at Richmond where he played 31 games before being recruited to Essendon in 2016. He played 39 games in the red and black during his three seasons.

Dea will provide the Bombers with depth in defence and continue to support the development of his younger teammates.

“Matt is a great person and we know what he can deliver on the field, so we’re really pleased to welcome him back to the Club,” GM of List and Recruitment Adrian Dodoro said.

“He is a leader and you can’t underestimate the contribution to the culture he made during his time at the Club. Matt is a great clubman and our players are rapt a person of his calibre is back on the list.”

This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's Official Recruitment and List Management Partner.