JOHN Worsfold's contract extension should be finalised in the next month, with Essendon chief executive Xavier Campbell expecting it to be resolved before the home and away season. 

The Bombers coach is entering the third and final year of his contract, but having steered the club through its disastrous 2016 and back into the finals last year, an extension is considered a formality.

Speaking at the Bombers' season launch on Wednesday night, Campbell said contract talks had progressed with Worsfold and that a new deal is not far away from being announced.

"(Essendon football manager) Dan Richardson, John and myself have had a number of discussions about what the future looks like for Essendon and John, and I’m happy to report both parties are extremely comfortable with the dialogue that has unfolded to date," he said. 

"While there is no rush to finalise this process, we are confident we will be in a position to provide you with [an] update before the season starts. 

"I know John is excited about the challenge of the impending season and we all look forward to watching the team take their game to the next level." 

Essendon opens its season against last year's grand finalists Adelaide at Etihad Stadium on Friday, March 23. 

The Bombers' batch of new recruits, talented youngsters and clear improvement last year has plenty expecting big things of the club in 2018. They are expectations that the club isn't shying away from, either. 

Campbell, who was appointed the club's chief executive in 2014 having previously been the Bombers' chief operating officer, said he was buoyed by what he has observed during the pre-season.  

"In almost a decade at Essendon I have never observed the level of commitment, the hunger, and willingness of everyone within our four walls to challenge each other to keep improving," he said.

"Every second on the training track, every 'rep' in the gym, every minute of every strategy meeting is done with purpose, passion and conviction.

"We should have hope in what we can achieve this season because of the strong leadership, the formation of unbreakable bonds and the unwavering support teammates, peers and colleagues have for each other."

The Bombers announced at the season launch that former players Neale Daniher, Harold Lambert and Roger Merrett are going to be inducted into the club's hall of fame, alongside Dr Ian Reynolds, who retired in 2009 after 28 years as club doctor.

Essendon will play its first JLT Community Series game on Saturday when it travels to Wangaratta to face reigning premier Richmond.