ESSENDON has elevated ruckman/forward Shaun McKernan and defender Ariel Steinberg from the rookie list, making the pair eligible for selection against Hawthorn on Saturday.
The duo's promotion came after speedster Travis Colyer and ruckman Tom Bellchambers were placed on the long-term injury list this week with foot injuries.
The Bombers could also elevate another rookie if they chose to (and depending on their salary cap position) as clubs are allowed to elevate a rookie after the bye independent of whether a senior player is on the long-term injury list.
Essendon recruited former Crow McKernan in last year's rookie draft.
He has played just one senior game for the Bombers – in round seven – but looks set to take on the vacant rucking role against Hawthorn.
He starred in his most recent VFL match taking 11 marks and kicking five goals.
Steinberg was placed on the rookie list this season after four years at the Essendon.
He has played just three senior games for the club including last year's elimination final loss to North Melbourne but won the club's VFL best and fairest award in 2014.
