Isaac Kako has quickly become one of the most exciting young players in the AFL. If you are a fan of the Essendon Bombers, you likely know him for his speed, skills, and that catchy “Whacko for Kako” nickname. Since joining the league, he has turned heads with his goal sense and energy.
In this article, you will know Isaac Kako’s Net Worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Isaac Kako’s Biography
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Isaac Kako |
| Date of Birth | March 7, 2006 |
| Age | 19 |
| Education | Parade College |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 176 cm |
| Weight | 73 kg |
| Turned Pro | 2024 (Drafted) |
| Net Worth | $250,000 (Estimated) |
| Salary/Earnings | ~$245,000 |
| Relationship | Lauren (Rumored) |
| Instagram Profile | @isaac.kako |
| Twitter Profile | @isaac_kako |
Early Career
Isaac Kako grew up in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. His parents, Laith and Samiya, moved to Australia from Iraq in 1999 to find a better life for their family. Isaac fell in love with footy at a young age.
He played his junior football for the Northern Saints and Pascoe Vale in the Essendon District Football League. He showed great talent early on and joined the Calder Cannons in the Coates Talent League.
During his time with the Cannons, Isaac became known for his amazing goals and pressure. He was a standout player in the under-18 competition. In 2024, he averaged 18.7 disposals and kicked 20 goals.
His great form earned him a spot in the Coates Talent League Team of the Year. He also played for Vic Metro in the National Championships. His speed and creativity made him one of the best small forwards in the draft pool.
Essendon fans were very excited because he was part of their Next Generation Academy (NGA).
Professional Career
Essendon officially selected Isaac Kako with pick number 13 in the 2024 AFL National Draft. The club matched a bid from Richmond to make sure he became a Bomber.
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This was a dream come true for Isaac, who grew up supporting the club. He made his AFL debut in Round 1 of the 2025 season against Hawthorn at the MCG. It was a huge moment for him and his family.
Isaac played a full season in 2025, showing he belonged at the top level. He played 23 games and kicked 15 goals in his first year. He brought energy to the forward line and tackled hard.
His ability to create chances from nothing made him a fan favorite very quickly. He finished his first season as a key part of Essendon’s future. The “Whacko for Kako” chants became a common sound at games as he dazzled crowds with his skills.
Isaac Kako’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Isaac Kako has an estimated net worth of around $250,000. This amount comes mainly from his first-year AFL player contract and match payments.
Contract
Isaac signed a standard two-year contract when he was drafted in November 2024. All first-round draft picks sign for two years. This deal keeps him at Essendon until the end of the 2026 season. His contract follows the AFL Players Association rules for new draftees.
Salary
A first-round draft pick like Isaac earns a base salary of approximately $130,000. On top of this base rate, players get paid for every senior game they play. Since Isaac played 23 games in 2025, he earned significant match payments.
These match payments likely added another $115,000 to his income. This brings his total gross income for the year to around $245,000 before tax.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Earnings (Est.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Essendon | $245,000 |
| Total | $245,000 |
Career Stats
| Season | Team | Games | Goals | Behinds | Disposals | Avg Disposals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Essendon | 23 | 15 | 9 | 257 | 11.2 |
| Total | 23 | 15 | 9 | 257 | 11.2 |
FAQs
1. Which junior club did Isaac Kako play for before the AFL?
Isaac played his junior football for the Northern Saints and Pascoe Vale in the Essendon District Football League. He later joined the Calder Cannons in the Coates Talent League.
2. What pick was Isaac Kako in the 2024 AFL Draft?
Essendon selected Isaac Kako with pick number 13 in the 2024 AFL National Draft. They matched a bid from another club to secure him as an NGA graduate.
3. Does Isaac Kako have a girlfriend?
Recent reports in December 2025 suggest Isaac is in a relationship with a woman named Lauren. Earlier in the year, he took his mother to the Brownlow Medal.
4. What is Isaac Kako’s ethnic background?
Isaac’s parents, Laith and Samiya, are from Iraq. They migrated to Australia. Isaac was born in Australia and is proud of his heritage.
5. How many goals did Isaac Kako kick in his first season?
Isaac Kako played 23 games and kicked a total of 15 goals. He also contributed 9 behinds and averaged 11.2 disposals per game.
