Lewis Hayes is one of the most promising young defenders for the Essendon Bombers. Standing nearly two meters tall, he has already shown fans glimpses of his elite intercept marking and composure. After dominating in the VFL, he finally earned his spot in the AFL in 2025, although his debut season faced a heartbreaking injury setback. Fans are eager to know more about this rising star’s financial standing and personal life. In this article, you will know Lewis Hayes’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Lewis Hayes’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lewis Hayes |
| Date of Birth | 17 December 2004 |
| Age | 20 |
| Education | Rowville Secondary College |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 199 cm |
| Weight | 84 kg |
| Turned Pro | 2022 (Drafted Pick 25) |
| Current Team | Essendon Bombers |
| Position | Key Defender |
| Net Worth | ~$200,000 AUD (Estimated) |
| Salary | ~$130,000 – $150,000 AUD |
| Relationship Status | Dating (Partner: Tiana) |
Early Career
Lewis Hayes grew up in Victoria and played his junior football for the Lysterfield Junior Football Club. He attended Rowville Secondary College, a school known for its strong sports program. As a junior, he developed a reputation as a tall, mobile defender who could read the play better than most kids his age. He joined the Eastern Ranges in the NAB League (now Coates Talent League) and became a key part of their defense. His 2022 season was his breakout year. He played for Vic Metro in the Under-18 National Championships, where his intercept marking and calm disposal stood out to recruiters. He averaged strong numbers for the Eastern Ranges, showing he could handle both one-on-one contests and zone defense. His impressive form led to the Essendon Bombers selecting him with pick number 25 in the 2022 AFL National Draft, fulfilling his dream of joining an AFL club.
Professional Career
Lewis Hayes spent his first two seasons at Essendon developing his body and game in the VFL. In 2023, he won the club’s Best First Year Player award in the VFL, showing immediate promise. He followed that up with an outstanding 2024 season, finishing as the runner-up in the VFL Best and Fairest award. His consistent performances proved he was ready for the top level. His long-awaited AFL debut finally arrived in Round 9 of the 2025 season against the Sydney Swans at Marvel Stadium. It was a proud moment for him and his family. However, the game ended in tragedy when he suffered a ruptured ACL in the third quarter, ruling him out for the remainder of the season. Despite the injury, the club showed great faith in him, having already signed him to a contract extension until 2026 before his debut, securing his future as a key pillar of their defense.
Girlfriend
Lewis Hayes is in a relationship with his girlfriend, Tiana. She has been a supportive figure throughout his journey to the AFL. Tiana was present at his home on draft night in 2022 when his name was called by Essendon, celebrating the life-changing moment with him and his family. While Lewis keeps most of his private life out of the media, the couple occasionally shares moments together on social media.
Lewis Hayes’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Lewis Hayes has an estimated net worth of around $200,000 AUD.This wealth comes primarily from his AFL salary over his first three years in the system.
Contract
Lewis Hayes is currently on a two-year contract extension that keeps him at Essendon until the end of the 2026 season. He signed this deal in July 2024 after impressing the coaches with his development in the VFL. This extension provides him with financial security as he recovers from his knee injury.
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Salary
For the 2025 season, Lewis Hayes’s salary is estimated to be between $130,000 and $150,000 AUD. This includes the standard base rate for a third-year player plus match payments for his AFL debut. While not yet on the big money of senior stars, his recent contract extension likely includes a pay rise for 2026.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Estimated Earnings (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Essendon Bombers | ~$100,000 (Base draftee wage) |
| 2024 | Essendon Bombers | ~$110,000 |
| 2025 | Essendon Bombers | ~$140,000 |
| Total | ~$350,000 (Gross) |
Career Stats
| Season | Team | Games | Disposals | Marks | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Essendon | 1 | 16 | 6 | 3 |
| Total | 1 | 16 | 6 | 3 |
FAQs
1. Which AFL team does Lewis Hayes play for?
Lewis Hayes plays for the Essendon Bombers. He was drafted by the club with pick 25 in the 2022 National Draft.
2. What injury did Lewis Hayes suffer?
Lewis Hayes suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee. The injury happened during the third quarter of his AFL debut against Sydney in Round 9, 2025.
3. How tall is Lewis Hayes?
Lewis Hayes stands at 199 cm (6 feet 6 inches) tall. His height allows him to play as a key defender who can match up against the tallest forwards in the league.
4. When does Lewis Hayes’ contract expire?
His current contract with Essendon expires at the end of the 2026 season. He signed a two-year extension in July 2024.
5. Who is Lewis Hayes’ brother?
Lewis Hayes is the younger brother of Sam Hayes, who plays as a ruckman for the Port Adelaide Football Club. They come from a talented football family.
