One of two Essendon youngsters to re-sign

Essendon utility Nik Cox and promising key defender Lewis Hayes have both signed two-year contracts, committing to the Bombers until 2026.

Expressing his excitement about the future at the Hangar, Cox highlighted his enthusiasm for both his and the team’s prospects.

“I’m very excited to re-sign with Essendon. They’ve shown great faith in me since being drafted, and I’m confident about the list we’re building and the future ahead,” Cox said. “I’ve enjoyed some real continuity in my footy this season after a couple of setbacks from injury, and I’m jumping at the opportunity to continue to build on that.”

Hayes also shared his satisfaction with the club’s direction and remains eager to work hard for his debut.

“There are great opportunities on the horizon for this footy club, and I’m super excited to be a part of it for the next two years,” Hayes said.

“Working closely with our development coaches has been massive for me so far, particularly in the case of ‘Hurls’ (Michael Hurley), who’s really put his arm around me and helped build my defensive capability over the last couple of seasons,” Hayes said.

With an AFL Finals spot on the line and a healthy defensive group, Essendon’s key defenders Ben McKay and Jordan Ridley are unlikely to make room for a Hayes debut just yet.

However, the signing allows Hayes to focus solely on salvaging a poorer season for the VFL side, currently sitting 17th with a 5-9 record.

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