ESSENDON leadership group member James Gwilt has been delisted.
The defender spent two years at the Bombers after being cut by St Kilda at the end of 2014.
Gwilt managed 15 matches this season before knee surgery derailed his campaign.
The 30-year-old last week told AFL.com.au he was open to continuing his career at another club.
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Essendon football manager Rob Kerr told the club's website Gwilt had played a critical role in the absence of the banned stars.
"James is a great person and has helped develop and mentor our young defenders since arriving at the club," Kerr said.
"In light of the challenges we faced with our list this season, James stepped up and played a vital role for us both in the backline and with our leadership group."
Gwilt was drafted by the Saints at No.63 in the 2004 NAB AFL Draft.
