Essendon will weigh up whether to sign delisted West Coast Eagles defender Josh Rotham as a free agent or Supplemental Selection Period (SSP) player.

The 26-year-old announced he was leaving the Eagles after 72 games at the club since being drafted with pick 37 in 2016 National Draft.

The Bombers were linked with a move for Rotham during the AFL Trade Period, reported by Gettable, and are now free to acquire the West Australian as a delisted free agent.

AFL TRADE AND DRAFT NEWS:

Rotham, who stands at 193cm, could be a replacement for the retiring Jake Kelly in defence, while also provide defensive cover with Zach Reid still batting consistent injuries.

Despite being drafted for the 2017 season, Rotham didn’t make his debut at West Coast until 2019, meaning he missed out on the Eagles’ 2018 premiership.

He managed to play 19 games in 2021, but only could play 13 games in each of the last three seasons.

“Thank you West Coast Eagles,” Rotham posted via social media.

“I love this footy club and have been spoilt with some of the best mentors I could have imagined. Got drafted with my best mate, gained some more and got to live out my childhood dream of playing AFL in these colours.

“4 quarters on the weekend is gold, but the belly laughs, doom sessions, footy trips, and relationships you build in between are just as special. It’s brought Mads and I a tonne of joy and I’m so grateful for it

“Finish up bloody proud and hope I made my people feel the same way at some stage along the way too. I have no doubt this club will be back where it belongs in no time.

“All love playas.”

Essendon could also choose to sign Rotham as an SSP rookie after the drafts are all completed.