ESSENDON key forward Jake Carlisle is expected to follow in Dyson Heppell’s footsteps and recommit to the Bombers.

Carlisle, 23, looms as the next priority signing for Essendon after Heppell last week agreed to a new five-year deal, helping stamp the dreadlocked ball magnet as the Bombers’ next captain.

The club is confident of retaining Carlisle and could entice him to sign a long-term deal early in the season, to help thwart off any big-money approaches from rivals, later in the year.

He is seen as a vital cog in the club’s forward setup, alongside prized young tall Joe Daniher.

The blue-chip swingman’s contract expires at season’s end.

It was reported the Western Bulldogs showed some interest in Carlisle last season but the 198cm goalkicker is known to be happy at Tullamarine, under coach James Hird.

Former coach Mark Thompson strongly denied there was a rift between him and Carlisle last season, despite continued conjecture about his best position.

It was claimed Essendon would suffer a mass exodus of players due to the ongoing supplements saga, but Heppell’s signature was a major show of faith and belief in the club’s direction.

Heppell said the players were content with the state of the investigation into the club’s supplement program.

“To be honest, everyone right through the playing group, we are really comfortable with where it is at,” Heppell said.

“What will be will be, but I have no hesitations in staying here.”

After a slow start to last year, Carlisle found form in the back half of the season, taking 45 marks in two games against Collingwood and Western Bulldogs.

He kicked 21 goals in the final seven games of the season, including eight against the Dogs, but missed the Bombers’ cutthroat elimination final loss to North Melbourne due to a hamstring injury.

Carlisle sought out Kangaroos’ legend Wayne Carey for some mentoring.