umer
If you watch Essendon play, you’ll notice one thing pretty quickly — Zach Merrett is everywhere. He doesn’t just pop up in big moments, he lives in them. Some players make their mark with flashy goals or one highlight a season, but Merrett’s game is all about showing up, every week, without fail. That’s why Bombers fans love him and rivals respect him.
How It All Started
Back in 2013 when Essendon picked him up, most people thought he’d be solid, maybe a role player. No one expected him to turn into the heartbeat of the club. Fast forward a few years and he’s not just racking up disposals — he’s shaping games. Every handball, every tackle, every smart little kick adds up, and suddenly he’s the guy dragging the team forward.
Captain Without the Fuss
When he got the captaincy in 2023, it wasn’t really a surprise. Merrett isn’t the type to scream in the huddle or put on a show for cameras, but you can see his influence in the way teammates lift around him. He trains hard, plays harder, and doesn’t ask anyone to do something he wouldn’t. That’s the kind of leadership younger players actually listen to.
Why Fans Rate Him
Merrett’s game isn’t about viral clips or one-off moments, it’s about the grind. He reads the play better than most, stays calm when others panic, and never stops chasing. Supporters know he’s the kind of player who won’t leave you frustrated because he never cheats the effort. Even opposition fans admit he’s hard not to respect.
What’s Next for Him
At 29, he’s already stacked up awards and recognition, but it doesn’t feel like he’s slowing down. Essendon’s future feels tied to how far Merrett can push them, and judging by the way he’s playing, he still has a lot to give. If the Bombers are going to end their long drought, you can bet he’ll be right in the thick of it.
Zach Merrett isn’t just wearing the captain’s armband. He’s carrying the club’s heartbeat every single week, and that’s why he’s become one of the most talked-about names in AFL right now.
