Key senior Bomber players Andrew Welsh and Nathan Lovett-Murray have signed new two-year deals with Essendon for the 2010 and 2011 season.
General manager of football operations Paul Hamilton said the pair were both expected to play big roles for the club over the next few seasons.
""Andrew and Nathan are two of the real leaders at the club and as two senior players with strong bodies they will be important to our future success,"" Hamilton said.
""Nathan played some really good football this year and, while Andrew was restricted with a serious leg injury, he returned and also showed what he is capable of.
""They will both now have a big pre-season and we expect them to be primed for 2010 and show their trademark courage and determination on the field.""
Hamilton said Lovett-Murray turns 27-years-old next week and Welsh turns 27-years-old in February so there is still plenty of good football ahead for both players.
""We have a young, exciting, energetic list and these two players provide us some experience and hardness,"" he said.
Meanwhile, negotiations with Adam McPhee continue and Essendon remains committed to re-signing him.
All AFL clubs must have their lists finalised by Friday, 13th November.
To watch the Paul Hamilton media conference click here.
Hamilton also congratulated Essendon legend Kevin Sheedy on behalf of the Bombers for his appointment as coach of West Sydney.
""This appointment is exciting news for Kevin,"" he said.
""It will be strange having him coach against the Bombers and I would not be surprised if the AFL schedule Essendon to play West Sydney in round one 2012.""
