RETURNING to a familiar 'inside' role has Richmond midfielder Shaun Grigg in career-best form, Tigers' coach Damien Hardwick says.

The 27-year-old has been in exceptional form in the past two weeks, kick-starting the Tigers' season with the first goal of the second quarter against Collingwood.

His contested possession numbers have been trending upwards and he has been a significant factor in the Tigers past two wins.

He sits third for score assists at the club, fourth for tackles, fourth for inside 50s and wins the ball forward of centre.

Hardwick said it was no coincidence Grigg was playing his best footy after recently turning 27 and with 132 games experience under his belt.

But he also admitted the leap in form had coincided with him playing a role more natural to him than he had been in recent seasons.

"We've moved him back into his natural role, which has been inside, and his contested ball numbers have risen, his ability to win clearances has been outstanding," Hardwick said.

"In years previous we've probably plonked him on the wing because we've required him to play that role."

Grigg joined Richmond at the start of 2011 after being traded for Andrew Collins.

He has played 89 games with the Tigers.

"Overall, you ask Shaun where his best footy is played and it is in the middle," Hardwick said.

"That is why we got him across from Carlton and we have managed to slot him back in there. He has performed really well."

Another Shaun who crossed from Carlton to Richmond is Shaun Hampson, who Hardwick said was in line for selection against Essendon.

"He's improved enormously. We're really happy with his progression as a player … he's been able to push forward in the [VFL] last few weeks and kick goals every week so he is trending in the right way," Hardwick said.

"He's only 27 years of age so he has got a bright footy future ahead of him."