Essendon has launched a full-scale review into its 2025 injury crisis, with chief executive Craig Vozzo leading a deep dive into the club’s fitness program after a season marred by persistent setbacks.
The Bombers have vowed to share the findings with players in a bid to address growing unrest within the squad, particularly after multiple soft-tissue injuries during a controversial bye-week training session.
Fitness regime under the microscope
Glenn McFarlane revealed on Fox Footy’s Midweek Tackle that Vozzo’s investigation will scrutinise everything from staff and facilities to ground conditions, preseason planning, and short-break management.
There is an understanding at the club that several players have voiced concerns about the ongoing injury toll, which has pushed Brad Scott’s side to the brink in 2025.
A Herald Sun report noted that unrestricted free agent Sam Draper is weighing up offers from Brisbane and Adelaide, in part due to unease about the club’s current fitness set-up.
The Bombers have admitted their performance in this space “has not been up to scratch,” but say they’re committed to reshaping the program in 2026.
Upgrades are already underway at The Hangar, including a resurfacing of one oval and a plan to redo the second post-season. However, the club does not believe the turf itself is behind the injury spike.
Despite the challenges, there are no plans to sideline players for the rest of the season as a protective measure. Instead, Essendon hopes transparency will help reassure its playing group and support a turnaround in fortunes next year.