Dean Solomon has informed Essendon he will not take up a role at the Club in 2027 after deciding to remain in New South Wales with his family.

Solomon returned to the football program as an assistant coach ahead of the 2026 season and was appointed Senior Coach in May. He led the side for the final 12 matches of the season, including a club-lifting win over the GWS GIANTS at Marvel Stadium in round 19.

He put youth and development at the centre of his tenure, consistently selecting a side built for the future and accelerating the growth of the Club's younger players.

A 2000 Premiership player, Solomon played 158 of his 209 AFL games in the red and black before returning to the Club as a Director in 2025.

President Andrew Welsh thanked Solomon for his service and said the impact he’s had on the club this season will have a long-lasting effect.

“'Solly' is an Essendon person first and foremost, and that has been obvious in every decision he has made since stepping into the senior coaching role," Welsh said.

"Every one of those calls has been made with an eye on where this club is heading rather than on the week in front of him. That is not the easy way to coach, and it takes a particular sort of person to do it.

"He has put connection and passion back at the centre of this place, on and off the field. The work he has put in with our players, our coaches and our staff has been tireless, and this club will feel the benefit of it for years.

"Dean has never once made any of it about himself. That is exactly why he is so well regarded here."

"He did all of it living away from his wife and children. They carried that with him, and our gratitude and thanks go to them as much as to Dean.

"While we'd prefer to have him with us next season, we understand and respect his decision completely."

Solomon said the decision had been a difficult one and thanked the club for exploring all possible opportunities for him.

"I have been incredibly grateful for the opportunity to give back to a football club that has given me so much," Solomon said.

"Being asked to coach a club I have a deep seeded connection with, even for a short time, is something I will always be proud of and something I have loved.

"But my family is settled in Northern New South Wales, and the past few months have shown me that it just not the right time to be away from my young family year on year. Their support of me and the club has been incredible, but it is time to go home.

"I am proud of this playing group. The results have not reflected where we want to be, but I have seen these players grow every day, and our members have every reason to be excited about the development of this group ahead. They are made of the right stuff.

"Get behind them and Mark from day one in 2027 and give them the best Essendon support possible. There is nothing better than running out in front of the red and black faithful."

Essendon will confirm its 2027 football department structure in the coming weeks.