Improvement from within was always going to be the key to Richmond’s progress in 2018 after winning last year’s premiership.

That being the case, the early-season form displayed by small defender Jayden Short has been particularly promising.

Short made 16 senior appearances with the Tigers in 2017 and was named as an emergency for the Grand Final team.

During the first couple of rounds this season, Short has showcased his pace, kicking skills and composure across the backline.

The 22-year-old was one of the few Richmond players that excelled in last Thursday night’s loss to Adelaide at Adelaide Oval,

He had 17 disposals, nine intercepts, four rebound-50s, three score involvements, four tackles and 403 metres gained.

Now in his third season of AFL football, with 34 games of senior experience, and the on-field attributes he possesses, Short seems set to take a big leap forward in 2018.