RICHMOND midfielder Nathan Drummond is ready to put his injury troubles behind him after winning the 3km time trial for the Tigers' first-to-fourth-year players at the weekend. 

Drummond edged out teammates Kane Lambert and Kamdyn McIntosh, as well as early returners Reece Conca and Brandon Ellis, to take the honours and set up his pre-season. 

After missing more than 12 months of football with a serious knee injury, the 21-year-old appears poised for a breakout 2017 if he can enjoy a clean bill of health.

He played four senior games late in 2016, but his running performance to launch the summer program is a bright sign for the Tigers, who would see him moving into regular senior calculations. 

Lambert, who trailed the versatile midfielder to the finish line, said the opening time trial was a positive start to a crucial pre-season for the Tigers. 

"The boys ran well and I think 'Burgey' (physical performance manager Peter Burge) is pretty happy with the times," Lambert told richmondfc.com.au. 

"I ran not a bad time, just off my 'PB'. 

"'Drummo' ran really well and I tried to tack on to him as long as I could. 

"This time of year we want to come back in great shape and set ourselves up for a big pre-season." 

The first-to-fourth-year players were back at Punt Road Oval on Monday morning, with the Tigers unveiling ruck recruit Toby Nankervis, who joined the club from Sydney in the NAB AFL Trade Period.

Lambert challenged the Tigers to bring a competitive edge to their pre-season after an eight-win 2016 that prompted a raft of off-field changes.

He said the club's new-look coaching panel, which now includes Justin Leppitsch, Blake Caracella and Xavier Clarke, was already having an impact.  

"In just a week we've already learned a hell of a lot off them … it's been great to get to know them," he said. 

"The young boys are really excited and have a lot of energy and the place is vibrant. 

"We have to challenge each other in everything we do, whether it's tackling or one-on-one, or time trials. 

"We have to challenge each other to get better and that competitive edge is what we need."