Essendon defender Nathan Lovett-Murray has been charged with drug possession after police raided his home on Monday morning.

Police allegedly found a single tablet of ecstasy at Lovett-Murray's place of residence but the 26-year-old maintains his innocence.

Victoria Police formally charged Lovett-Murray with being in possession of a drug of dependence as well as driving while unlicensed - he failed to renew his license when it expired on July 7.

The Essendon backman was arrested in relation to a statewide operation which also nabbed his brother and cousin on drug-related offences.

Essendon CEO Peter Jackson told a media conference on Tuesday afternoon that Lovett-Murray has the full support of the club and he will continue to train and play with the senior group.

Lovett-Murray will face court in October where he will, according to Jackson, 'vigorously' defend the charges.

"This is a serious matter and we, as a club, are treating it as such," Jackson said.

"However, there must also be a presumption of innocence and Nathan is determined to contest the charge."

"Understanding the process that has unfolded, the character of Nathan and the work he does in the community, the Essendon Football Club intends to support him in this matter and as such he will continue to train and play."

"It is now a legal matter which will run its course over the next few months."

Lovett-Murray has requested that he undergoes hair, blood and urine tests to prove he does not use illicit drugs.

The revelation is a blow to Lovett-Murray's off-field reputation as he is known to be a diligent worker in the community, especially for indigenous causes and is seen as a role model at the club.

This is the first time an AFL player has been embroiled in an illicit drug-related controversy since the infamous Ben Cousin saga which dominated headlines for much of 2007.

The news caps off a forgettable weekend for the Bombers who lost their third consecutive match on Sunday against the lowly West Coast just seven days after being beaten by the struggling Tigers.

Essendon has now slipped outside of the top eight for the first time since Round 11 and is in serious danger of missing out on the finals.