NAB AFL Rising Star favourite Dyson Heppell, young forward Stewart Crameri, Tom Bellchambers, Jason Winderlich, Heath Hocking and Cale Hooker have signed new contracts with the Bombers.

Essendon coach James Hird told the Herald Sun the club was eager to sign Heppell but not because it feared he was a target of new club GWS.

"We wanted to sign Dyson up long-term pretty much the day we met him, the day we drafted him," Hird said.

"I don't think GWS was a major concern, it was just making sure he had security in his future and we all knew that we had a long-term player."

Hird was also pleased that young forward Crameri had also recommitted.

"[Crameri's] definitely exceeded my expectations," he said.

"He's one of those surprises you get when you come to the club. That's why you don't make decisions straight away, I think it's always best to have a look at everyone, give everyone a chance, because you get guys like Stuart Crameri pop up."

In a club media release, Hird said: "There is a lot of optimism around the club about how we can develop and improve as a playing group and these re-signings are a positive show of faith that the players are committed to that journey.

"We believe all six players will play an important role over the next couple of years as we look to deliver future success for the Essendon Football Club."

Heppell, Hooker, Crameri, Bellchambers and Winderlich have signed with Essendon until the end of the 2013 season, while Heath Hocking has signed until the end of the 2014 season.

More to come...