Nick Bryan Biography

Essendon coach Brad Scott believes the "best case" has been put to keep Sam Draper, insisting the Bombers will continue to play two rucks.

Draper (achilles) and Nick Bryan (knee), who has recommitted to Essendon until the end of 2027, have been sidelined for the majority of this season.

But before their injuries in consecutive weeks, Draper and Bryan were playing in the same team.

"The evidence at the start of the year was very clear ... they were both playing career-best football together. We've been really clear in terms of we'd like to have that ruck partnership into the future," Scott said.

"The indication with changes to the sub rule only strengthens that case to play two rucks."

Essendon ruck Nick Bryan will miss the rest of the 2025 season with a ruptured ACL.

"This is obviously a disappointing setback for Nick, who'd been in good form for us," Essendon general manager of AFL Daniel McPherson said.

"While it's frustrating for him given how hard he's worked to earn consistent opportunities at senior level, we have no doubt that Nick will attack his rehab just as strongly and put himself in a great position to return in good shape next season."

Nick Bryan makes his AFL debut for Essendon at the MCG with 12 disposals (5 kicks and 7 handballs), 3 marks, 3 tackles and 19 hitouts in a 16-point loss to Carlton.