RICHMOND has made two additions to its leadership group for 2016, with midfielder Trent Cotchin retained for his fourth year as captain.

Reigning club champion Alex Rance has been added to the five-man leadership group, along with small forward Shane Edwards.  

Vice-captains Brett Deledio and Ivan Maric remain in official leadership roles, which are voted on by the players in consultation with the coaches, while defenders Steven Morris and Troy Chaplin have been omitted.

Edwards, who has been one of the Tigers' most improved players in recent seasons, said his addition to the leadership group would give him confidence to speak up more around the club.   

"I’ve been pretty shy, so it’s good to know that I’ve got the backing of my teammates and coaches," Edwards told richmondfc.com.au.

"I’ve got fairly good personal relationships with a good mix at the club, which I think will help develop younger players and also mix that with the older players.

"I need to get better in a lot of areas overall, and I need to be a lot louder than what I am, so this is hopefully giving me the confidence to do that."

Rance enjoyed his finest season in 2015, winning the Jack Dyer Medal and receiving All Australian honours for the second straight year.

Football manager Dan Richardson said the elevation of Rance and Edwards was reward for their development in recent seasons.  

"Alex and Shane both continuously drive the standards that we expect at our football club, and we know they’ll continue to do that in the responsibilities of their new roles," Richardson said.