Nik Cox Returns After 630 Days as Essendon Vs Brisbane Starts

Essendon vs Brisbane brought Nik Cox back to AFL level on Saturday afternoon, with the utility named in Essendon’s senior side for the first time since Round 22, 2024. It was his first senior appearance in 630 days, and it changed the Bombers’ selection picture for a home match at Marvel Stadium.

Nik Cox Returns for Essendon

Cox’s inclusion gave Essendon one of its four changes for the match. The Bombers entered at 1-6 with a 72.9% percentage, so his return landed in a season where every senior spot carries extra weight.

Essendon also lined up against former ruck Sam Draper for the first time since he joined Brisbane. That added a sharp edge to a match already shaped by the numbers on the ladder and the gap in form between the two sides.

Marvel Stadium Lineups

Brisbane arrived at Marvel Stadium with a 4-3 record and 118.8%, and the Lions also included Dayne Zorko back from a calf injury. Cody Curtin was in the side as a first-year debutant, giving Brisbane a mix of experience and a fresh face on the same afternoon Cox returned for the Bombers.

The match was scheduled for 12:35pm AEST, with coverage listed from 12pm AEDT on Fox Footy Channel 504 and Kayo. For Essendon, the immediate takeaway was simple: Cox is back in the senior frame, and the Bombers can now judge how his return fits a side trying to steady a 1-6 start against a Brisbane team with a stronger record and percentage.