Gleeson, 27, was taken with pick 53 in the 2013 AFL draft and played 97 games for the Bombers.

He featured 69 times in his first four seasons but a series of injuries meant he missed the entire 2018 campaign before returning in round 15 of 2019.

Essendon general manager of football Josh Mahoney said Gleeson's character and personality were among his greatest traits.

"He has been such a respected, dependable person for us over a number of years and it's tough saying goodbye to someone as popular as he is," he said.

"Marty should be proud of his efforts, in particular his resilience to overcome a significant ankle injury and the way he has helped shape the culture of our club.

"We wish him all the best for his future and he will forever be an Essendon person."

Fellow Hampden league export Zach Merrett, from Cobden, is now the sole south-west prospect on the Bombers' list.

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