A DECISION on Jobe Watson's future is expected in the next few weeks and an announcement on Brendon Goddard is coming.
 
With key defender Michael Hurley signing a contract extension until the end of 2022 on Thursday, it is seemingly more good news for Essendon.
 
Bombers CEO Xavier Campbell told RSN927 on Friday morning the club was optimistic of keeping its past two captains.
 
"Discussions have been really positive (with Goddard). I feel like we're in a pretty good position and hopefully there's an announcement coming soon," Campbell said.
 
AFL.com.au reported on Wednesday that the 31-year-old is looking for another two years.
 
Watson, 31, has been in New York working as a barista, and it is unclear if he will return to football.
 
"I still think it's two or three weeks away. We haven't put a deadline or anything else like that on with Jobe," Campbell said.
 
"I've spoken to him really recently and had a good discussion. He sounds like he's in a pretty good head space."
 
Defender Michael Hibberd has been overseas but is due back soon. Melbourne wants to acquire the 26-year-old, who is signed until the end of 2017.
 
"Once we sit down with him and have a better discussion, we'll have a better position with him to take forward," Campbell said.
 
The CEO is confident Ben Howlett will continue at the Bombers
 
"I think he will. We've had ongoing discussions with Ben for a few weeks. He's just working through a process in his own mind," Campbell said.
 
Despite the potential salary-cap pressures at Essendon, with the likes of Dyson Heppell, Cale Hooker and Hurley on long-term contracts, Campbell said there was no need for major concern.
 
"I don't feel there's an enormous pressure. We've got to be diligent, clearly, but there are still some moving parts that we just don't know yet," he said.