Essendon is pleased to announce a long-term contract extension for Nic Martin, who’s signed on until the end of 2031. 

The 83-gamer has been sorely missed by the Bombers in his rehab from multiple knee injuries over the past year but remains a vital component of their push into the future under new Senior Coach Mark McVeigh.

Still just 25 years of age, Martin’s rapid ascent remains one of the league’s finest SSP stories – he wasted no time acclimatising to the elite level with five goals and 27 touches on debut in 2022 and has emerged as one of the Club’s most prominent and impressive leaders since. 

Martin tallied more than 20 games in each of his first three seasons and had featured in all 16 prior to his ACL setback in 2025, still managing to finish fifth in the Crichton Medal despite missing nearly a third of the season. 

Starring on all three lines of the ground, Martin has earned Runner Up honours at the Crichton in the past and continues to be a key cultural driver within the four walls as he works his way back from injury. 

Essendon’s General Manager of List and Recruiting Matt Rosa said the retention of Martin long-term was a major focus for the Club.

“’Marto’ has been - and will continue to be - crucial to what we’re building at Essendon,” Rosa said. 

“It almost goes without saying that a healthy Nic Martin makes us a much better side. He’s been one of our most consistent players from the moment he arrived and has grown into a terrific on-and-off-field leader.

“In a sense, it does feel like we’ll be bringing in a high-end recruit when we get him back out on the park next year.  

“He’s an outstanding person who embodies the values we live by as a footy club, and that’s evident to anyone who’s watched him represent our colours. We’re thrilled to have him here for at least the next five years.” 

Working tirelessly over the last 12 months, Martin is grateful for the support he’s had and can’t wait to represent the Essendon faithful again.

“I’m really grateful for the way the club has backed me in, especially considering my injury and being out for a year. It means a lot to have that support and belief from the Club,” Martin said.

“The sole reason why I wanted to commit long-term is because I see the direction of the club from top to bottom. The core group we’ve got, the recent draftees and young players is something I want to be a part of.

"Due to being injured this year, my main role was to galvanise the group. Regardless of whether we won or lost, I tried to remain the same and keep the boys up throughout the year. This year allowed me to further build relationships with the young boys and be a mentor for them, which has been special. 

“I will never underestimate the support of the fans and how much we feel it when they come out in numbers. I understand the frustration but we need them with us.

"I’d urge all fans to continue to back in what we’re building, back in the young players and the team we’ve got. We know things will turn.”