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Footy boss to step down as change continues at Essendon
Sam Edmund • July 30th, 2026 1:49 pm
Essendon football boss Dan McPherson will step down at season's end as change continues at the Bombers.
McPherson informed club chiefs on Tuesday that he had decided to resign and he today informed the players of his decision.
The former Swan and Melbourne assistant coach joined the Dons from North Melbourne in late 2022 and won praise for helping stabilise the Bombers at a difficult time.
He has proven popular with the wider playing group at the Hangar and was determined to see out the year despite Brad Scott leaving mid-season.
“This feels like the right time for me conclude my tenure at the Bombers,” McPherson said.
“I leave with confidence that the foundations have now been laid for a positive future. I’m proud of the role that I’ve played in reshaping our football strategy, as well as our high-performance area and I believe this club is poised to succeed in a meaningful way over its next phase.
“The rebuild of our list around a young, talented core is exciting and I have no doubt they’ll achieve special things for the red and black in the years ahead.”
McPherson’s departure leaved the Bombers to search for a replacement GM of football as they make progress in their search for a new senior coach to replace Scott.
Image credit: Essendon Football Club
