Former Fremantle player Ryan Crowley has signed on as one of Essendon’s ‘top-up’ players for the 2016 season.

The 31 year old toured the Club’s facilities today and will begin training with the team tomorrow.

“Whirlwind is one way to put it,” he said.

“It’s been amazing. I’m super excited to be down here. It’s a great Club with heaps of history.

“I can’t wait to get down there and train with the boys.”

Crowley played 188 games for the Dockers including the 2014 Grand Final.

He made his name as a relentless run-with player capable of quelling some of the best players in the competition.

“Hopefully I can bring a lot of experience, a bit of hardness and maybe just a bit of protection for some of the young players,” he said.

“We’ve got some great young on-ballers, Merrett and Parish and these guys, so hopefully I can look after them.”

Crowley has been training with Swan Districts after spending the entire 2015 season on the sidelines.

“It’s amazing how good your body can feel,” he said.

“I wouldn’t recommend having a year off, but it’s amazing how good your body can feel.”

The Bombers can sign up to ten ‘top-up’ players and have until March 15 to do so.