Richmond defender Jayden Short has heaped praise on young defender Sam Grlj, who stood tall under trying circumstances in Round 4.

Grlj, who was drafted last year, has played all four matches of the 2026 season, showing off his pace and smart ball movement across the backline and through the midfield.

The 18-year-old had 19 disposals, five marks, two tackles and two clearances in Saturday's loss to Port Adelaide at the MCG.

It's left Short feeling positive that there are signs of genuine improvement already.

"He's amazing, Grlj. I love the kid. What he's brought to the Club his energy, his willingness to learn. That's all you can ask from a young kid," Short said post match.

"He's come in with a positive attitude and wants to be better himself. He wants to get his team to be better. I really appreciate having Grlj on my team."

Short, who was strong against the Power, and had 22 touches, six marks and three tackles, was also complimentary of another young defender, Campbell Gray.

Gray, who has played just six AFL games, recorded seven marks, seven intercepts, and 14 disposals, while playing a key role deep in defence.

"I'm not surprised by Campbell's [improvement] at all. His pre-season was amazing. The amount of work he puts in to better his own game, the questions he asks and just his efforts throughout the whole pre-season, I'm not surprised when I see him perform like that," Short said.

"I know how good he can be and I know how good he is. I love running out there with him and hopefully I can see him out there more."

Attention quickly turns to next week's Gather Round clash against GWS in the Barossa Valley, with Short knowing the side needs to quickly bounce back and work on staying in the match for longer.

"It's a tough one. A lot of our numbers had us in the game, our finishing work was not up to scratch. We thought we could have been closer. We've got a bit of work to do," he said.

"Our contest work is something we want to pride ourselves on next week. Those numbers looked pretty good. We need to continue on that and get the ball forward. 

"The contest side of the game, they [GWS] really pride themselves on that. We'll have to match it with them.

"We'll get to work, stick fat, be positive and hopefully get over there for a win."