Richmond defender Josh Gibcus has committed his future to Richmond, putting pen to paper on a new three-year deal.

The fresh contract extension will see Gibcus remain at the Swinburne Centre until at least the end of the 2029 AFL season, which will be his eighth year at the Club.

Gibcus was recruited with pick No. 9 in the 2021 AFL National Draft and was a revelation as an athletic tall defender in his debut season.

Gibcus has played 22 AFL games, including 18 and a final that year, with his long, penetrating kick, intercept, and ability to shut down a range of opponent types a clear standout.

The promising 22-year-old has been hampered by a significant hamstring injury and an ACL tear over the last three seasons, but has had continuity of training across the past 12 months.

Gibcus showed consistent VFL form last year and has had an outstanding pre-season, continually impressing with his application to improve his game.

The 196cm defender returned to the AFL lineup for the final round clash last year and has been a part of Richmond’s senior team across the pre-season and in Round 1.

Richmond Executive General Manager, Football Talent, Blair Hartley, said that the Club had great confidence in Gibcus’ long-term prospects.

“Josh has worked so hard on his game and his body over the past few years. It has been terrific to see him have a faultless pre-season and return to our AFL team,” he said.

“He has huge talent and a skill set that will be important for us going forward, so we are delighted to have him commit to the Club.

“Josh should take great confidence from this contract extension and his recent performances. We are all excited to see what he can achieve across the coming years.”