Jordan Ridley traded to Geelong in player swap with Essendon

Geelong and Essendon have finalized a player and draft pick swap involving defender Jordan Ridley and utility Jack Bowes. Under the terms of the deal, Geelong acquires Ridley, pick 60, and a 2028 fourth-round selection.

In exchange, Essendon receives Jack Bowes, Geelong’s 2027 first-round pick, and a 2028 second-round pick. The trade follows Bowes’ recent request to move to the Bombers.

Ridley, 27, was previously Essendon’s best and fairest winner in 2020 and an All-Australian squad member. However, recurring injuries have limited him to just 26 games over the last three seasons. Despite being contracted until 2029, Ridley sought a fresh start at Geelong.

Bowes, 28, joins Essendon as his third AFL club after stints with Gold Coast and Geelong. While a regular in Geelong’s lineup previously, including the 2025 Grand Final, he appeared in only nine games this season.