RICHMOND has re-signed two of its former first-round draft picks, with defender Nick Vlastuin and midfielder Corey Ellis both recommitting to the club.
Vlastuin and Ellis were both set to come out of contract at the end of this season, but the Tigers have moved quickly to take them off the market.
Vlastuin has signed a new three-year deal that ties him to Punt Road until the end of 2019, with Ellis agreeing to a two-year deal that extends his tenure to the end 2018.
Richmond football manager Dan Richardson said Vlastuin and Ellis were important re-signings for the club's future.
"We're really pleased with the ongoing development of both Nick and Corey," Richardson said.
"Both players are working really hard with the coaches on and off the track to take their game to the next level, and we're excited by what they bring to the team.
"It's been great to see Nick spend some time in the midfield recently, and for a second-year player Corey has been very composed and consistent in the backline this season."
Vlastuin, 22, was selected by Richmond with pick No.9 in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft after captaining Vic Metro in his final junior season.
The defender has played 69 AFL games and finished equal-sixth in the Tigers' best and fairest award last year.
Ellis, 19, was taken by Richmond with pick No.12 in the 2014 draft and played six senior games in his debut season last year.
The left-footer has played nine games in 2016, impressing with his strong work ethic and contested play.