Essendon Releases Former Top Draft Pick Elijah Tsatas

Essendon Football Club has announced the delisting of midfielder Elijah Tsatas, who was selected with the fifth pick in the 2022 AFL National Draft. Over four seasons, Tsatas played a total of 22 games for the Bombers.

In the 2026 season, he participated in six matches, averaging 24.3 disposals and 4.3 clearances per game. Despite his strong performance in the VFL, where he finished ninth in the league's best-and-fairest, he struggled to secure a consistent position in the senior team, which faced challenges this season.

Reports indicate that Tsatas, now 21, has not been offered a new contract under the new coaching regime led by Mark McVeigh as the club aims to rebuild for the 2027 season. His potential may attract interest from other clubs looking for late draft or rookie options, given his previous high draft status.