Emerging ruckman Jason Laycock also penned a two year deal after establishing himself as one of the Bombers’ future rucking prospects.

Essendon chief operating officer Travis Auld said securing key players is pivotal to the Club’s long-term success.

“We are really pleased to have signed both Mark and Jason until the end of 2010,” he said.

“From a list management perspective, we are pleased to have locked away a lot of our younger talent through to the end of 2010.

“These re-signings are really encouraging for the club as we enter an exciting period of football over the coming years.”

McVeigh, 27, made his efforts known in the Essendon midfield this year despite an injury-interrupted season.

“Mark played some of his career-best football this year and if he is able to stay free of injury next year then we can look forward to some really exciting football,” Auld said.

“Mark has also cemented himself as an integral member of our leadership group and has had a positive influence on our emerging talent.”

Taken at pick nine in the 1998 national draft, McVeigh played 14 games this season to bring his career total to 176.

Laycock, 23, has played 58 games since making his AFL debut in 2004. He is a strong overhead mark and has supported David Hille in the ruck this season.

McVeigh and Laycock are among a number of players to commit to the Club this season. Others include; Scott Gumbleton (signed until the end of 2010), Heath Hocking (2009), David Hille (2010), Bachar Houli (2010), Leroy Jetta (2010), Sam Lonergan (2010), Angus Monfries (2010), David Myers (2010), Kyle Reimers (2010), Henry Slattery (2010) and Jobe Watson (2010).