Essendon's off-season recruiting and youth development will influence whether Jobe Watson plays on next year, coach John Worsfold says.
With the Bombers still in the hunt for a finals berth, 32-year-old Watson's future won't be decided until the end of the AFL season.
The former skipper hasn't indicated either way whether he wants to continue his decorated career, but the health of the Bombers' list is set to be a key issue from the club's perspective.
Essendon have made no secret of their desire to land a big fish over the off-season, with Greater Western Sydney's Josh Kelly and Richmond's Dustin Martin key targets.
The Bombers are also keen to give more midfield time to star youngsters Andrew McGrath and Darcy Parish, meaning on-ball spots will be at a premium next year.
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"There's a lot of factors to take into account," Worsold told Seven Network's Game Day on Sunday.
"Where does Andy McGrath play his best footy - does he step up and become a midfielder next year?
"Parish is growing, and I expect he'll be a more dominant force through the midfield next year, so looking at that, the balance of the team, who we recruit in this year, and how Jobe's feeling.
"That's obviously the biggest part of it - where's Jobe at physically and mentally?"
Watson has been in solid form in his return to football, having come close to walking away from the game after the turmoil of the Essendon supplements saga.
He was rested last week but returned to face North Melbourne on Saturday, gathering 27 disposals.
Watson said last week the lure of playing in another finals campaign would be a carrot for him to continue playing.
