Jake Kelly Steps Away from Football: A New Chapter Begins

Jake Kelly's Retirement Announcement

Essendon utility Jake Kelly has announced his retirement from the AFL.

Transitioning to the Next Phase

The 29-year-old said he is focusing on the next phase of his life despite appearing to have plenty of footy ahead of him. Kelly was a mainstay in the Bombers' line-up this year, playing 20 games to take his career total to 168. He enjoyed some strong form early in the season with a number of key shutdown jobs on the opposition's dangerous forwards, but was often a whipping boy among fans.

Career Highlights and Gratitude

Kelly began his career at Adelaide, playing 110 games there before joining Essendon as a free agent at the end of the 2021 season. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m incredibly indebted to the Adelaide Football Club for giving me the opportunity.” He praised both clubs, stating, “I leave knowing that the quality of people within it are the right ones to lead it back to being a dominant club.”

Essendon Club’s Response

Essendon general manager of AFL Daniel McPherson hailed Kelly's courageous decision to step away from football. He stated, “To play 168 games at AFL level, including a Grand Final, is a terrific achievement.”

Future of Essendon

The Bombers have now made six list changes with Kelly and Heppell retiring, along with Nick Hind, Kaine Baldwin, Jaiden Hunter, and Tex Wanganeen being delisted.