Versatile talent Kyle Langford has recommitted to the Bombers, signing a new two-year deal. 

Just a day after young star midfielder Andrew McGrath inked a new two-year deal, Langford’s extension will see the 23-year-old remain at the NEC Hangar until at least the end of 2022.

Originally selected at pick No.17 in the 2014 NAB AFL Draft, Langford has appeared in 81 senior games over his six-year career at the Bombers. He enjoyed a career-best season in 2020, playing across midfield and forward to finish fourth in the club’s Crichton Medal count.

Langford said he was thrilled to recommit to Essendon.

“I’m rapt to have signed on with the club for the next two seasons,” Langford said. 

“I feel like I’m really starting to develop some continuity in my game, so I was pretty clear that staying with the Bombers was going to be the best thing for my football as I’m hungry to keep growing as player. 

“While it wasn’t the year we would’ve liked to have had as a team, I really believe we are on the right path to achieving on-field results under ‘Truck’ (Ben Rutten). 

“We have a really hungry young group of players and I can’t wait to get back to the club with the boys and commit to a pre-season of hard work, intensity and driving high standards to take this group forward to where we want to go.”

General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said Langford’s new deal was a reward for his improvement in 2020.

“Kyle had a terrific season this year, which was clearly shown through his top-four finish in the club’s best and fairest,” Dodoro said.

“We were really impressed in his work-rate and ball use as a wingman, but also his ability to then play in the forward line and impact the scoreboard.

“If Kyle can continue his game development into next year and beyond, then we feel he can be a really damaging player for us, which is really exciting for our members and supporters.”

This news is brought to you by Orchard HRO, the club's official recruitment and list management partner.