John Longmire, the 2012 premiership coach of Sydney, has not yet been approached by either Essendon or Carlton regarding their senior coaching roles for 2027 and beyond. Despite this, both clubs are expected to consider him as a potential candidate in the future.
Longmire, who has had discussions with the Tasmania Devils about their coaching position, has not been formally contacted by the Bombers or Blues. A source close to the situation mentioned that while no official inquiries have been made, both Essendon and Carlton may reach out to gauge his interest at a later stage.
Essendon is taking a measured approach to their coaching search, as they have not yet defined clear criteria for their next senior coach or established an interview panel. Ted Richards, Essendon’s football director and a former player for both the club and Sydney, played under Longmire from 2011 to 2016. His connection to the coach could be a factor in any future discussions.
Carlton recently confirmed their coach search panel, which includes chief executive Graham Wright, football boss Chris Davies, president Rob Priestley, and ex-West Coast premiership coach Adam Simpson. Greg “Diesel” Williams, a former champion and board member, is acting as a consultant in the process. Simpson has ruled himself out as a candidate for both clubs.
Longmire, known for his 63% winning record and leading the Swans to five grand finals, would be a strong contender for the Essendon position if he were to express interest. The role became available after Brad Scott’s removal earlier last week. Essendon’s president, Andrew Welsh, a former 162-game player, is expected to play a key role in the decision-making process.
The media has been focusing on James Hird’s pursuit of the Essendon coaching role since he announced his candidacy on Channel Nine’s Footy Classified program. Hird, a former 2000 premiership player, has been vocal about his interest in the position. However, Essendon’s president, Welsh, has stated that the club will not rule anyone in or out at this stage.
Ken Hinkley and Simpson have suggested that the Hird question needs to be resolved before other serious candidates consider the role. It remains unclear how Hird’s pursuit will affect the overall pool of candidates for the Essendon coaching position.
“Essendon now have to decide before anything else, before they ask any other person, they have to decide whether James Hird is going to be their coach,” Hinkley said on SEN last week. Hinkley was previously considered for a football department role alongside Scott last year.
The Tasmania Devils have also been in contact with Longmire, Nathan Buckley, and Hinkley as part of their own coaching search. Their decision will be made well before they enter the AFL competition as the 19th team for the 2028 season.
Carlton is focused on identifying the most capable assistant coaches in the market. Josh Fraser, who has taken over as caretaker coach following Michael Voss’s departure, has ruled himself out despite winning three games in a row.
Keep up to date with the best AFL coverage in the country.
Sign up for the Real Footy newsletter.
