An AFL great has questioned why Jake Stringer should be “rewarded” with a lucrative contract extension amid questions on his professionalism as the Bombers forward’s football future hangs in the air.

Contract talks for 2025 between Stringer and Essendon have officially dragged into the post-season, with coaching great Mick Malthouse last week sensationally declaring the club should let the 30-year old walk.

It follows reports from earlier this year that Stringer was seeking a three-year deal, while many have suggested the dynamic Bomber would be better suited to one-season contracts from here on in to keep him motivated and allow him to perform better.

An AFL great has questioned why Jake Stringer should be “rewarded” with a lucrative contract extension amid questions on his professionalism as the Bombers forward’s football future hangs in the air.

Contract talks for 2025 between Stringer and Essendon have officially dragged into the post-season, with coaching great Mick Malthouse last week sensationally declaring the club should let the 30-year old walk.

It follows reports from earlier this year that Stringer was seeking a three-year deal, while many have suggested the dynamic Bomber would be better suited to one-season contracts from here on in to keep him motivated and allow him to perform better.

But Johnson acknowledged he understands the Bombers’ approach to try and keep him “on that little bit of edge” to ensure he’s at his best.

Johnson also pointed out that after Stringer committed to getting his body in great shape earlier in the season he appears to have faded physically as the year’s gone on.

And so Hawthorn champion Dermott Brereton questioned why the Bombers should offer Stringer “a longer contract” if he can’t maintain peak physical shape across the campaign.

“You’ve got a bloke who has prepared himself beautifully in Round 1 and his body looks like it’s carrying pounds by the end of the year,” Brereton said on Fox Footy.