Star midfielder Zach Merrett says he decided on re-signing with Essendon on a monster six-year deal as far back as early May.
The dual best-and-fairest winner was one of the biggest names in AFL free agency this year but shunned rival offers to remain with the Bombers until the end of 2027.
In an interview with News Corp on May 7, Merrett claimed he was yet to make a decision on his future, creating some panic in the minds of the Essendon faithful after watching Adam Saad, Joe Daniher and Orazio Fantasia leave last year.
But the 25-year-old actually had already settled on staying, well before the contract was unveiled by the club on Thursday.
"I think deep down I feel like since coming back in November I was always leaning towards staying," Merrett said.
"But ultimately, I probably made my mind up around the time I did the article.
"Probably post the (GWS) Giants game (on May 8), we had a few close losses, but I felt like everything we were trying to implement in the last three to six months was starting to come out.
"Following that we had a few wins and everyone thought I was changing my mind then, but it was probably pre that three-week block that I felt like everything was starting to turn."
Merrett was not willing to detail which clubs pursued him, but did admit he went through the "process fully".
"(Manager) Tom (Petroro) is a very good experienced manager and understands the process," Merrett said.
"He's done it for over 20 years so it was a pretty easy process with him and he provided a lot of clarity and guidance."
Merrett, who will turn 32 around the time his new contract expires, has played 154 of a possible 164 games for Essendon since being drafted in 2013.
The Bombers are hopeful emerging midfield star Darcy Parish and experienced forward Jake Stringer will follow suit in the near future.
Merrett said he would let Parish, 23, make up his own mind following a breakout year which has included best-on-ground performances in the Anzac Day and Dreamtime blockbusters.
"He's a super player and someone I'd love to play with for another six-to-eight years," Merrett said.
Australian Associated Press
