Dempsey played 11 seasons and 133 games in the red and black, before Essendon officials announced on Friday they would not be renewing his contract.

He was one of the players on that club's 2012 senior list who did not participate in its disastrous injecting program.

Top Bombers players including captain Jobe Watson and top midfielder Dyson Heppell will be back to play for the club in 2017, after serving a season-long suspension for doping.

General manager of football Rob Kerr released a statement thanking Dempsey for his "outstanding services" to the Bombers.

"He played with flair and courage, was a role model to his young teammates and has worked hard to make a difference in the Indigenous community," he said.

The Western Bulldogs released a statement confirming Minson was on his way out after announcing earlier in the month that 2016 would be his last season.

The ruckman was named in the 2013 All-Australian team and played 191 games for the Doggies, but fell out of favour with coach Luke Beveridge and played just two senior games in 2016.

Minson told attendees at the Western Bulldogs' best and fairest event earlier this month that his time at the Bulldogs had come to an end, but that he was not then sure if he would play on elsewhere.

Minson and Dempsey are both unrestricted free agents.

Delisted by Essendon:

Courtenay Dempsey

Will Hams

Gach Nyuon

Delisted by Western Bulldogs:

Will Minson

Josh Prudden (will be re-selected in the rookie draft)