Essendon's James Kelly has announced the 2017 season will be his last as an AFL player.

The 310 game veteran told teammates of his decision to retire this morning.

Kelly arrived at the Bombers on the eve of the 2016 season. Despite a limited preparation, he played 20 games and finished runner-up in the best and fairest.

He has played 17 games so far this year, including his 300th career match against former club, Geelong.

Kelly played 273 games with the Cats between 2002 and 2015. He was a member of three premiership sides (2007, 2009 and 2011) and was named in the All Australian side in 2011.

Kelly and Essendon Coach John Worsfold will hold a press conference later today.