HAWTHORN has secured the prized signature of emerging key forward Mitch Lewis for another four seasons.

The 23-year-old was off-contract at season's end but Lewis will be sticking with the Hawks until at least the end of 2026.

Despite only having played nine games this year, Lewis is already enjoying this best form of his career to date, kicking 27 goals.

Lewis booted a career-best five goals against Port Adelaide in round two and has finished with two other hauls of four majors.

He was taken with pick No.76 in the 2016 draft, just weeks after Hawthorn controversially traded out premiership heroes Sam Mitchell and Jordan Lewis.

"We are thrilled to see Mitch commit to the club for at least the next four years," Hawthorn list manager Mark McKenzie said.

MITCH LEWIS The ironic pick No.76 emerging into a genuine star

"We think Mitch’s desire to remain with the Hawks is a reflection of the culture and environment that continues to build as well as the optimism that surrounds our future.

"Mitch has shown some significant progress over the last 12 months, particularly through this year’s pre-season, to become one of Hawthorn’s most consistent forwards.

"This deal highlights Mitch’s hunger for success at Hawthorn, and we look forward to seeing him further his craft in the brown and gold."