Jack Bowes Requests Trade to Essendon After Nine Games at Geelong

Geelong midfielder Jack Bowes has requested a trade to Essendon, according to AFL.com.au’s Cal Twomey. The 28-year-old has played just nine senior games for the Cats this season and is out of contract at the end of 2026. Essendon coach Mark McVeigh and list manager Matt Rosa met with Bowes last week. Geelong footy boss Andrew Mackie confirmed the club is open to exploring opportunities for the player elsewhere.

Why Bowes fell out of favour at Geelong

Bowes arrived at Geelong at the end of 2022 as part of a famous salary dump deal from Gold Coast. The Suns sent Bowes and Pick 7 to the Cats in exchange for a future third-round selection, with Geelong covering his heavily back-ended salary. Despite 74 appearances in his first three seasons at Kardinia Park, Bowes struggled to cement a spot under coach Chris Scott, managing only nine games in 2026 after falling out of the selection frame.

Essendon emerges as frontrunner after rival interest fades

Bowes attracted interest from Essendon, North Melbourne, and Adelaide in recent weeks, but has now chosen the Bombers. Essendon coach Mark McVeigh met with Bowes last week to discuss the move. The Bombers are seeking experienced midfield assets as they rebuild, with Bowes able to play across half-back, on a wing, or in the centre. His versatility appeals to Essendon’s list management strategy.

Geelong’s openness to trade reflects squad depth

Cats footy boss Andrew Mackie said on Thursday the club is open to Bowes exploring opportunities. “When guys are out of the team, we feel that we do need to have a conversation with them if they can better their career, then that’s something we’d always like to do as a footy club,” Mackie said on Continental Tyres AFL Trade Radio. Geelong had offered Bowes another contract to stay, but the player has opted for a fresh start with the Bombers.

Essendon’s trade period challenges mount

Bowes’ request is a boost for Essendon after recent setbacks. Luke Pedlar, Jake Riccardi, and Sam Marshall all chose rival options this week, with Pedlar heading to Port Adelaide and Marshall to St Kilda. Essendon is also pursuing Melbourne midfielder Jack Viney and Western Bulldogs forward Laitham Vandermeer. The Bombers hold Picks 1, 19, and 55 in the 2026 AFL Draft as they attempt to strengthen their midfield depth.

Final Thoughts

Bowes’ trade to Essendon signals a fresh start for the 28-year-old after limited opportunities at Geelong. The move strengthens Essendon’s midfield options as the AFL trade period opens, though the Bombers face competition for other targets this off-season.

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