McGrath is likely to draw interest from several other clubs eager to utilize his speed and boldness from the halfback line, but it’s anticipated that he will stay with the Bombers.
According to AFL Media’s Cal Twomey, Essendon is swiftly working on securing the 25-year-old to a substantial long-term contract, alongside other key players like Ben McKay, Darcy Parish, Jordan Ridley, and Mason Redman.
“He’s currently a restricted free agent and has been among the Bombers’ top-paid players for some time now, leading up to this free agency period,” Twomey revealed on Gettable.
“It’s my understanding that Essendon has offered McGrath a six-year deal to retain him at the club.”
As the vice-captain of the Bombers, McGrath has been predominantly utilized as a full-time defender since the arrival of Brad Scott at the club.
Since being drafted with Pick 1 in the 2016 National Draft, McGrath has amassed 139 games for the Bombers and was honored with the AFL Rising Star award in 2017.
With potential future captaincy on the horizon, McGrath, a product of Brighton Grammar, stands to benefit from the mentorship of current skipper Zach Merrett.
Meanwhile, attention also turns to the contract situations of rising star Archie Perkins and promising prospect Harrison Jones, both of whom are key figures for the club’s future.
Veterans Dylan Shiel, Dyson Heppell, Jake Kelly, Jake Stringer, and Matt Guelfi will be seeking contract extensions throughout the year, while midfielder Jye Caldwell has earned a multi-season deal.
McGrath has made an impressive start to the 2024 season in Essendon’s revamped backline, ranking among the elite for disposals (25.4), kicks (16.8), and meters gained (536.7).
With a current record of 3-2, the Bombers are set to face the challenging atmosphere of Adelaide Oval against the Crows this Friday night.
