Paddy Ryder is back in black (and red), re-entering the halls of his first AFL club as a mentor for Aboriginal and Torres Strait players at the Bombers.

Following his retirement after 281 senior games with Essendon, Port and St Kilda at the end of 2022, the 34-year-old returns to Tullamarine as the club's Indigenous development manager to guide mob and first to third-year footballers.

After 17 years in the elite footy system, the 34-year-old Noongar champion is looking forward to his new role.

"I spent a big chunk of my career here and it's always been a big part of me so I always knew one day I'd end up back here in some capacity," Ryder told essendonfc.com.au.

"To come back to help out our young Indigenous boys is something I'm really excited for and am really hoping to come in and make a big difference.

"I really love the direction that the club is heading in and it's super exciting for our players and members. I want to play my role in bringing these young boys through and giving them the best chance of playing AFL footy.

"We've got a proud history and to come in to keep driving that for us is something I will take very seriously. I can't wait to give back to the club that gave me my first opportunity and I'm really looking forward to that."

Ryder's insight and knowledge will come via the Bombers' Jack Jones Academy on-and-off-field education program.

Essendon chief executive Craig Vozzo said he is "thrilled" to have Paddy back.

"He has extensive experience as a player and understands the rigours of AFL football. It will be extremely beneficial for our Indigenous and younger players to have someone like Paddy around the club," he said.

The ruckman played 170 games for Essendon between 2006-2014.

Ryder is set to receive AFL life membership at the competition's season launch on Thursday.