Essendon is continuing its strong week of signings, locking away star Nic Martin on a long-term deal.
Martin sat out the entire 2026 season with a knee injury but will have until the end of 2031 to make up for lost time.
The positive signing comes after Essendon lured footy genius John Longmire into a high performance role alongside new coach Mark McVeigh.
“I’m really grateful for the way the club has backed me in, especially considering my injury and being out for a year,” Martin said.
“It means a lot to have that support and belief from the club.
“The sole reason why I wanted to commit long term is because I see the direction of the club from top to bottom.
“The core group we’ve got, the recent draftees and young players is something I want to be a part of.”
At Moorabbin, St Kilda has also locked away rising star Hugo Garcia until the end of 2029.
Garcia was already contracted until the end of next season but was rewarded with an extension after a breakout season.
“Seeing what we’re building at the club, especially with the boys I play alongside in the middle each week, made the decision to re-sign an easy one,” Garcia said.
“It’s a great feeling to have this locked away nice and early so come pre-season I can fully focus on working hard to make myself and the side better.
“We didn’t quite finish the season the way we would have liked but I know for myself, it just makes me hungrier for 2027.
“We have a talented and connected group, but we understand that more growth is required to compete with the best in the competition.”
Originally published as AFL 2026: Essendon, St Kilda extend key players on long-term deals