Skipper Zach Merrett and ruckman Sam Draper have both earned eight votes apiece in Essendon's 27-point win over the Demons.

Merrett was instrumental through the midfield, gathering 35 disposals, seven tackles and four clearances, while Draper was terrific forward of the ball, converting three first half goals accompanied by 14 disposals and 18 hitouts.

00:51

Both Darcy Parish and Andrew McGrath managed four votes apiece, putting together influential performances through the middle and down back respectively.

Continuing his terrific form, Kyle Langford capped off a brilliant goal of the year contender with 16 possessions and seven marks.

The Sam Durham breakout is well underway, with the young winger contributing 25 possessions and nine score involvements.

Dylan Shiel also maintained his strong form, building on his season with another 28 disposals, seven clearances and nine score involvements.

08:11

Essendon AFLCA votes - Round five

8. Zach Merrett
8. Sam Draper
4. Andrew McGrath
4. Darcy Parish
2. Kyle Langford
2. Samuel Durham
1. Dylan Shiel

Essendon AFLCA votes overall leaderboard

20. Zach Merrett 
19. Darcy Parish
17. Mason Redman
10. Sam Draper
10. Jake Stringer
9. Kyle Langford
8. Archie Perkins
6. Will Setterfield
5. Nic Martin
2. Jye Caldwell
2. Sam Durham
1. Dylan Shiel