PAUL Chapman will play for Essendon next year after agreeing to a one-year deal on Tuesday.

The veteran was reported to be in a contract dispute with the club but will continue his career in the red and black in 2015.

The three-time Geelong premiership player joined Essendon at the end of 2013 and the 33-year-old said his body was in good shape for a 16th season in the AFL.





"I'm really excited to be playing on for another year with the Bombers," Chapman said.





"After playing 20 games this year, my body and mind still feel really good. I felt I had a really productive first year at the club and hopefully the coaches felt that I played the role they needed me to.





"I'm looking forward to going around again with the boys and getting stuck in to the pre-season."









Coach James Hird said Chapman's contract extension meant the club would again benefit from the 271-gamer's experience.





"He played some really solid football this year, particularly towards the end of the season and really showed his class during the club's finals series," Hird said.





"Paul is a great role model and provides important guidance for our relatively young forward line. He is a terrific asset for our club."





In recent seasons the Bombers have added some senior types to their list, including Chapman, Adam Cooney and James Gwilt, while Dustin Fletcher has also committed to playing on in 2015.





The club will take two live picks to this month's NAB AFL Draft (No.17 and 20), and upgrade rookie Patrick Ambrose to the senior list.





The Bombers face a tough opening to next season, drawing Grand Finalists the Sydney Swans (at ANZ Stadium) in round one and reigning premiers Hawthorn in round two.



