Bulldogs announce details of youngster’s contract extension

A former first-round pick has signed-on at the Kennel.

The Western Bulldogs have confirmed a new contract extension for young defender Jedd Busslinger.

Dogs coach Luke Beveridge let slip last week that the 20-year-old had recommitted to the club, with Busslinger deciding to remain at the Kennel over a potential return home to Western Australia.

A former first-round draft pick, Busslinger shapes as a critical part of the club’s future while he continues to press his case for a senior debut amidst his second season with the Bulldogs.

“The Bulldogs has been a great place to me ever since I walked in the door and I couldn’t be happier to be staying around,” Busslinger said of his new deal, which will take him to 2026.

“I’m absolutely loving my time here with all the boys and all the coaching staff.

“While I haven’t played a game of AFL yet, I am really confident in myself moving forward.

“I want to be absolutely ready when the opportunity comes and to hold my own at AFL level.”

Busslinger has continued to impress at VFL level for Footscray across his 18 months in the red, white and blue, averaging 20.9 disposals and 8.0 marks per game.

Shoulder surgery from his draft year delayed his start at Whitten Oval last year, with a full pre-season now having the key defender in the conversation for a maiden senior call-up.

“We’re really pleased that Jedd is remaining at Mission Whitten Oval,” Bulldogs list manager Sam Power said in a club statement.

“Jedd’s shown strong growth over the past 12 months, demonstrating his ability to intercept the ball and distribute well across the back half.

“Jedd has developed a willingness to work extremely hard on his game, particularly his defensive craft alongside our senior players and coaches.

“From the moment he walked in the door, Jedd has been willing to take feedback onboard in order to improve and is driven to become a consistent AFL footballer.

“As a Club, we’re excited to see Jedd continue to develop as a key defender into the future.”

Busslinger’s re-signing comes after the Dogs announced a new deal for small forward Cody Weightman last week, with the livewire attacker now penned to the club until the end of 2027.

Lachie Bramble (2025), Harvey Gallagher (2026), Tom Liberatore (2025), Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (2026) and Rhylee West (2026) have also committed to the club this year.