ESSENDON young gun Andy McGrath has signed a two-year contract extension to see him committed to the club until the end of 2020.

McGrath was drafted with the first overall selection in 2016 and followed that up with an excellent debut season, winning the NAB AFL Rising Star award. 

He played mostly in defence but moved into the midfield as the season went on, lining up in 21 games, including the elimination final loss to Sydney. 

The 19-year-old is a leader despite his youth and McGrath told essendonfc.com.au he wanted to continue helping his younger teammates.

"My intentions were always to stay at Essendon, and to now announce that officially is something I am proud of," he said.

"I want to help lead the young boys, and show them the ropes first and foremost. I always want to get better every year I play, and that will be no different this season, so hopefully I can build on my game and take it to the next level.

"I believe we are building something really special here. We have a lot of young talent and experience on our list, we are really driving to achieve the ultimate success."

Coach John Worsfold expects McGrath to move into a role as an onballer.

"His performances in defence last season made him an integral part of our side, and with continued development over coming seasons, he is on his way to becoming a handy inclusion to our midfield group," Worsfold said.