Essendon have announced their side for tomorrow's AAMI Community Series match against Saints, taking place at Mars Stadium in Ballarat from 3:10pm AEDT.

Zach Merrett headlines the ins, with the star midfielder returning to the side after missing the first practice match due to State of Origin in Perth.

Defender Mason Redman will also return after missing due to personal reasons.

Archie Perkins will get his first taste at AFL level for 2026.