Essendon have secured another important signature, with ruck Nick Bryan’s new deal to see him remain at the Club until at least the end of 2027.
 
A constantly developing talent, the 203cm Don had elevated himself into a regular and consistent starter by the start of this season, piecing together solid form until falling victim to an untimely ACL injury in Gather Round.
 
Despite the setback, the former Bombers’ VFL Best and Fairest winner has attacked his rehab with a positive mindset and is shaping to be another vital piece for the side heading into his seventh AFL season and beyond.
 
Bryan is excited to commit to the Dons again, determined to continue his upwards trajectory alongside his mates in the sash.

 
“Even though I’ve been sidelined, it’s been super exciting watching the direction the Club is heading,” Bryan said. 
 
“We've got so many promising young players, and seeing four Rising Star nominations this year has been huge. They’ve brought so much energy and fun to the group, and once they get more experience, we’re going to be a really strong side. 
 
“It's obviously been a disappointing year for me personally, but I genuinely believe I’ll come back a better athlete because of the work I’m putting in. Rehab’s tracking well, my body and my knee is feeling strong, and I hit a big milestone with my first run the other day, and now it’s all about building from here. 
 
"There’s been some really strong performances in the ruck this year. It’s great for the Club to have that depth, and for us rucks to be learning off someone like Goldy (one of the best to ever do it) has been massive. I’m keen to keep working alongside Drapes in the future, we’ve built a great connection, and I feel like we’ve only scratched the surface of what we can do together. 
 
"I’m incredibly proud to continue playing for the Bombers. This Club gave me my first shot, and it means a lot to still be here. I’ve really missed being out there this season, and I can’t wait to run out in front of the Bomber faithful again in 2026.” 
 
First making his AFL debut back in 2021 as a long-term prospect, Bryan’s had to work hard to earn frequent senior opportunities and has set himself up well from his VFL experience with a strong body of work.
 
Now up to 23 career games after fighting his way back into the lineup last year, Bryan made a promising start to 2025, averaging 24 hit-outs and 13 disposals per game across his three full games to open the campaign.
 
The Bombers’ GM – List and Recruiting Matt Rosa is excited for fans to see the best of Bryan as he sticks with the Club.
 
“’Bryza’s a really important talent for us and we’re excited to have him extend for another two years,” Rosa said.
 
“It’s unfortunate that the injury didn’t allow us to see him perform over a long period of time for us this season, because he’d worked tirelessly over the pre-season to establish himself at AFL level.
 
“We’re confident we’ll see him back at his best in 2026.
 
“He’s a much-loved member of the group and I’m sure our midfielders will continue to enjoy working with Nick into the future.”