Jake Stringer meets Essendon coach over possible return
The Giants let the 32-year-old go after he led their scoring with 48 goals. He is seeking another opportunity with a Victorian club.
Jake Stringer has met new Essendon coach Mark McVeigh as the Bombers consider bringing the forward back to the club following his departure from the Giants.
The Giants released Stringer after a season in which his 48 goals topped the club’s tally. He has returned to Melbourne hoping to continue playing for a Victorian team, but has not found a new club.
Stringer previously played seven seasons for Essendon and was its leading goalkicker on three occasions. He kicked 42 goals in 2024 before departing for the Giants on a two-year contract. He also has a family tie to McVeigh, whose cousin he married.
Reporter Tom Morris said on AFL Trade Radio that Stringer had told him he would be comfortable if another AFL opportunity did not emerge. Morris said Stringer was interested in coaching, hoped to establish an academy and was happy to spend more time with family.
The Bulldogs selected Stringer with pick No.5 in the 2012 draft. Across five years there, he played 89 games and was part of the 2016 premiership team. The 2015 All-Australian moved to Essendon before the 2018 season.
