ESSENDON'S Tayte Pears has resumed training but it is unlikely the key defender will play again this year.

Pears, 20, was sidelined with a bruised and bleeding pancreas after the Bombers' round 13 loss to Hawthorn, and has a post-operation 25cm scar on his abdomen to show for it.

He has started walking laps of Windy Hill and cycling, but is not doing any weight-bearing conditioning.

Football manager Paul Hamilton told the Essendon website that while the side was missing Pears in the backline, it was good to have him around the club during the week.

"He is happy to be back and starting his training program and the other players are really happy to see him," Hamilton said.

"Tayte always has a positive influence on others so his return has given everyone a lift. He can still play an important role around the club.

"We have certainly missed having Tayte on field.

"He has developed into a good, strong, young defender and we have missed his presence out there."

Earlier this season, Pears made a remarkable recovery from a broken arm - missing three rounds when it was initially feared he would be sidelined for two months.

The West Australian has played 38 games since his 2008 debut.