It is a further blow to the Bombers' forward line, with Scott Lucas already out because of a knee injury.
Leroy Jetta is also out with a hamstring strain.
The Bulldogs have lost Scott West with a knee problem.
The Bombers beat the Bulldogs by 54 points when they clashed in the preseason cup earlier this year.
Essendon coach Matthew Knights says he is not expecting it so easy tonight.
"We did play well that night and beat them well, but they've significantly improved since that game," he said.
"From what I saw last week (when they beat St Kilda), I think they're in ripping form.
"They're pretty lethal because they've got beautiful foot skills and a very dangerous team.
"They're not three wins and no losses because they're just going, they're a good footy side."
Source: By Australian Broadcasting Corporation
