AFTER a difficult week the Crows finally have a reason to smile, with All Australian defender Rory Laird signing a three-year contract extension until the end of 2021.

The Crows have been under siege ahead of Thursday night's blockbuster encounter with premiers Richmond at Adelaide Oval after details of their pre-season camp on the Gold Coast emerged.

Several senior players were reportedly upset with elements of the camp, which focused heavily on intense mind training.

Laird has emerged as one of the most damaging rebounding defenders in the competition and was named in the All Australian team last year, averaging 30 possessions per game.

"Adelaide is just a great club to be at and I’m thrilled to be able to keep playing footy here," Laird told afc.com.au.

"The Crows gave me my first chance at playing AFL when they took me in the rookie draft and it’s nice to be able to repay that faith.

"There’s a really positive environment at the club with all the players and coaches driving each other to get better every day."

Laird has played 102 AFL games for the Crows since being drafted with the No.5 pick in the 2011 rookie draft.

Restricted free agent Rory Sloane remains the biggest name out of contract with the Crows, while link-up forward Tom Lynch is also a high priority.

Crows general manager list management and strategy Justin Reid said it was great for the club to secure Laird's signature.

"Rory has become one of the best small defenders in the AFL and we are thrilled to have him commit to the club for a further three years," Reid said.

"Ever since he arrived at the club we have been impressed by his professionalism and desire to get the very best out of himself.

"His ability to consistently play at such a high level is a credit to this work ethic and he sets a great example to his teammates."