Sam Durham (born 09 July 2001) is an Australian rules footballer who plays for Essendon in the Australian Football League (AFL).
Essendon recruited him with the 9th draft pick in the 2021 mid-season draft. He debuted in round 18 of the 2021 season against North Melbourne.
He debuted in round 18 of the 2021 season against North Melbourne. He collected 11 disposals in an 18-point victory.
Durham was upgraded to Essendon’s senior list for the 2023 season after a season and a half on the rookie list.
You can follow Sam Durham’s net worth, salary, contract, career details, earnings, endorsements, relationship status, career stats, and more here.
Sam Durham‘s Net Worth Details
Sam Durham’s net worth is estimated to be $1.5 million as of 2025. In March 2024, Durham signed a four-year contract extension with Essendon, securing his place at the club until at least the end of 2028.
Contract
Initially, Essendon drafted Durham in the 2021 mid-season draft and quickly proved his worth.
By April 2022, he had secured a two-year contract extension, which was set to keep him at the club until the end of 2024.
This early extension was a testament to his rapid development and the high regard the club’s management held him in. Building on this momentum, Durham signed another contract extension in March 2024.
This new deal was a four-year contract, extending his tenure with the Bombers until at least the end of 2028.
This long-term commitment from Essendon underscores Durham’s critical role in the team’s structure and plans.
His performance in this role, particularly in the early games of the 2024 season, likely influenced the decision to secure his services for an extended period.
Salary
| Season | Salary |
| 2022-23 | $11,055,120 |
| 2023-24 | $11,608,080 |
| 2024-25 | $12,160,800 |
| 2025-26 | $15,334,769 |
About Sam Durham
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Sam Durham |
| Date of Birth | July 9, 2001 |
| Place of Birth | Seymour, Victoria |
| Height | 185 cm (6 ft 1 in) |
| Weight | 84 kg (185 lb) |
| Position(s) | Midfielder/Forward |
| Current Club | Essendon |
| Jumper Number | 22 |
| Original Team(s) | Richmond (VFL) |
| AFL Debut | Round 18, 2021 vs North Melbourne |
| Draft | No. 9, 2021 Mid-season draft |
| Games Played | 53 (as of end of round 5, 2024) |
| Goals | 13 |
| Contract Status | Until the end of 2028 |
| Relationship Status | Dating Paris Bishop |
College Career
His path to professional Australian rules football involved playing at the club level.
Before being drafted by Essendon in the AFL, Durham played for the Richmond Reserves in the Victorian Football League (VFL).
He was known for his hard work and commitment. He balanced his time as an apprentice carpenter with his football training and games.
Despite missing out on selection in the 2019 AFL national draft, his performance for Richmond’s VFL side caught the attention of Essendon, who drafted him with the ninth pick in the 2021 mid-season rookie draft.
Professional Career
He was drafted from the Richmond Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL) with the ninth pick in the 2021 mid-season draft.
Since joining Essendon, Durham has shown significant development in his playing career, transitioning into a midfield role and adding a new dimension to the team’s gameplay.
Durham’s professional career at Essendon has been marked by consistent performance and growth.
In the 2024 season, he played his 50th game in round one against Hawthorn.
His ability to play midfield and forward positions has made him a versatile player for the team.
Durham’s performance has been solid, with a season average of 81.3 in 2024. It has improved over the past three weeks, with an average of 92.0.
In March 2024, Durham signed a four-year contract extension with Essendon, securing his position at the club until at least the end of 2028.
This contract extension reflects the club’s confidence in his abilities and potential for further development.
Durham expressed his excitement about the extension, noting the importance of his family’s support in his professional journey.
Relationship Status
In April 2024, Sam Durham confirmed dating Australian fashion model Paris Bishop.
Career Statistics
| Season | Team | Games | Goals | Kicks | Handballs | Disposals | Marks | Tackles |
| 2021 | Essendon | 7 | 1 | 47 | 52 | 99 | 31 | 9 |
| 2022 | Essendon | 20 | 5 | 140 | 161 | 301 | 91 | 35 |
| 2023 | Essendon | 22 | 5 | 178 | 185 | 363 | 107 | 47 |
| Career | 49 | 11 | 365 | 398 | 763 | 229 | 91 |
Sam Durham’s career achievements in the Australian Football League (AFL) as a player for the Essendon Bombers include several notable highlights:
- Quick Establishment as a Key Player: Since making his debut in round 18 of the 2021 season, Durham has quickly become a fan favorite at Essendon. His consistent performance and only missing three possible games highlight his durability and importance to the team.
- Versatile Player Development: Durham has transitioned from playing as a half-back to the wing and is now gaining midfield experience. This versatility adds depth to his game and provides Essendon with flexible tactical options.
- Preseason Excellence: Durham has demonstrated strong performances, notably winning two two-kilometer time trials at Essendon. His commitment to improving his physical condition, including gaining weight without losing running power, has been a significant part of his preparation and success.
- Clutch Performances: Durham gave Bombers fans a memorable moment by scoring a game-winning goal in the final 10 seconds against the Richmond Tigers. This highlights his ability to perform under pressure and his potential to impact crucial moments significantly.
FAQs
When was Sam Durham drafted into the AFL?
Durham was drafted in the 2021 mid-season draft.
What position does Sam Durham play?
He plays as a defender/midfielder.
Which club does Sam Durham play for?
He plays for the Essendon Football Club.
How tall is Sam Durham?
He is 185 cm tall.
What is Sam Durham’s jersey number?
He wears the number 22.
When did Sam Durham make his AFL debut?
He debuted in round 18 of the 2021 season.
Has Sam Durham signed a contract extension with Essendon?
Yes, he signed a four-year extension in 2024.
Is Sam Durham in a relationship?
Yes, he is dating Paris Bishop.
What is Sam Durham’s original team before joining the AFL?
His original team was Richmond in the VFL.
What are Sam Durham’s career stats?
He has played 53 games and scored 13 goals.
