Craig Bird
Craig Bird (born 21 January 1989) is a former Australian rules footballer who played in the AFL for the Sydney Swans (2008–2015) and Essendon (2016–2017). He came from the NSW/ACT Rams in the TAC Cup and Nelson Bay in the BDAFL, and was drafted with pick 59 in the 2007 national draft.
Bird made his AFL debut in 2008 for Sydney, wearing number 14. He was named Sydney Swans Rising Star for 2008 (tied with Kieren Jack). His 2010 season was slowed by a toe injury. He had a career-best year in 2011, playing 22 of 24 games and often tagging opposing midfielders; he notably kicked four goals in round 18 against Western Bulldogs as a defensive forward. In 2012 he continued to perform well and played in the Swans’ Grand Final win, finishing ninth in the 2012 Bob Skilton Medal.
In 2015 Bird lost his regular spot as younger players emerged, and he was traded to Essendon in October 2015. He played for Essendon in 2016–2017 and was delisted at the end of the 2017 season. Career total: 157 AFL games and 59 goals.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 05:59 (CET).