Essendon have begun their search for a new head coach, with James Hird at the top of the list, but is he the right man to coach the club going forward?

Essendon youngster Angus Clarke was impressive in the VFL, and he may be one of a handful of young players set to return to the AFL if the coaches are to make selection statements.

Essendon remain on the bottom of the ladder after a frustrating 67 point loss to the St.Kilda Saints.

Essendon are set to be active this off-season, but while star recruits may be out of the question, there are several underappreciated role players at other clubs that could be targets in a money-ball approach.

James Hird has officially met with Essendon president Andrew Welsh as the hunt for a senior coach ramps up, while the AFL ponders whether or not to grant Essendon priority picks at the end of the year.

It was another dismal Essendon loss, with the performance of Sam Durham the clear standout in an otherwise poor game of football.

Essendon returned to football with a dismal performance at Marvel Stadium, comfortably defeated by North Melbourne despite the scoreboard flattering the Dons.

Essendon could welcome back a handful of crucial players as we approach the last block of games in 2026, while a report has suggested a head coach candidate was not a strong contender the last time the club searched for a coach.

The Essendon Bombers will enter the bye in last place on the ladder, having disappointed so far in season 2026, but is it all doom and gloom as the club takes a well earned rest?

Mid-season recruit Jaxon Artemis impressed in his first VFL hitout, while a host of under pressure AFL Bombers struggled to perform.