RICHMOND youngster Jayden Short has penned a two-year contract extension with the Tigers until the end of 2018.

The 20-year-old will be elevated to the club's senior list after arriving at the Tigers as the 11th pick of last year's NAB AFL Rookie Draft.

Short justified the Tigers' faith with an impressive first season, kicking six goals in 16 games while being able to play at either end of the ground.

"Jayden works incredibly hard on and off the field to develop and improve his game, and that's why we love him in our team," general manager of football talent Dan Richardson told richmondfc.com.au.

"He's a very versatile player with great pace, kicking skills and footy smarts, and we’re really pleased to reward his hard work with a place on our senior list and a contract extension.

"We're looking forward to Jayden having a strong pre-season and taking his game to another level in 2017."

Recruited from the Northern Knights, Short made an immediate impact when he made his senior debut in the round two game against Collingwood.

He kicked a goal with his first kick in the AFL, going on to boot three majors against the Magpies as a small forward.

The 177cm Short was then moved into the backline later in the season, looking assured as a small defender for the Tigers with his speed and composure under pressure.