Hawthorn star signs four-year extension after Essendon bid
Rising Hawthorn star Josh Weddle has signed a four-year extension that will earn him around $900,000 per season next year.
The club confirmed the 21-year-old’s decision, which came after Essendon made a bold bid for the powerful Hawk when it was reported that the Bombers had made a seven-year offer that would earn him around $10 million to lure him away from Hawthorn.
Josh Weddle is set to sign a deal that ties him to the Hawks through 2030.Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images
Weddle, who will be a free agent when his next contract expires, has made a huge impact since making his debut in 2023, playing 60 games in a variety of positions.
Although he plays mainly defensively, his attacking performance in the final quarter of last year’s qualifying final against GWS turned the game in Hawthorn’s favour.
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Weddle has been trialled in midfield and on the wing, but is expected to continue to develop his game from defence, as his poor runs and strength make him a dangerous opponent. While he may not be among the club’s best-and-fairest 10 in 2025, he is viewed as a high-ceiling match-winner.
Weddle was in demand during the 2022 national draft when the Hawks traded for Sidney, moving him ahead of the Giants, who are keen on the athletic youngster. He was selected with the 18th pick.
His signing before the start of the season is a huge bonus for the club, who enter the season hoping to make a serious change in the lead after losing last year’s preliminary final to Geelong.
Attempts to secure Essendon captain Zach Merrett during last year’s trade window failed as the Bombers refused to accept an offer of three first-round picks for the contracted midfielder. Star midfielder Will Day, who injured his shoulder during training, will not be able to play for the first three months of the season.
