Shiel plays last game for Essendon

The Essendon Football Club has announced that Dylan Shiel has played his last game with the Bombers with the onballer not offered a contract for the 2026 season.

Shiel announced to the playing group after the round 24 loss to Gold Coast that the match was his last for the club and he won’t be returning in 2026.

The midfielder joined the Dons ahead of 2019 via a trade signing, featuring in 98 games for the Club over the last seven seasons.

A former All-Australian with GWS from his 135-game stint there, Shiel immediately became an integral piece for the Bombers upon his switch, finishing runner-up in the Crichton Medal in his first year with the Club.

“I have mutually agreed with the Essendon Football Club to part ways. I believe the timing is right to explore continuing my career elsewhere if the opportunity arises. If not, I am ready to embrace the next phase of my life,” Shiel said.

“I want to express my deep gratitude for my time at Essendon. Although we didn’t reach all the heights we dreamed of, I cherished representing the red and black. I loved putting on the red and black jumper and representing the club and its supporters every weekend and I want to thank all the Essendon supporters who embraced me.

Essendon is a special club, one that has a presence in the big moments, and I loved being a part of it. I value the lifelong relationships I have formed at Essendon,” Shiel said.

In red and black, Shiel grew into an important leader for the young group over time thanks to his elite professionalism and work ethic.

“On behalf of everyone at the Essendon Football Club, I want to thank Dylan for his service. Dylan's professionalism has been a great example to his teammates throughout his time at the club,” General Manager of AFL Daniel McPherson said.

“He had a profound impact on Essendon, and his willingness to mentor our younger midfielders has been invaluable. We thank Dylan for his contribution, and he will always be a part of the Essendon family,” McPherson said.

The Club thanks Shiel for his commitment over the last seven seasons and wishes him and his family the best for the future.

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