ST KILDA rookie Jason Holmes will continue with the Saints in 2016 after signing a one-year contract extension, and may play senior football this season.

The 25-year-old big man has been on an incredible journey from college basketball to the cusp of the AFL stage that started in 2014 after the NAB AFL Rookie Draft.

It could potentially culminate in his Saints' debut this year, the decision to put Jack Billings on ice for the rest of this season with a stress fracture in his shin opening a spot for a promoted rookie.

"This whole experience has been a steep learning curve for me and I am feeling like I am improving as a footballer," Holmes told the club's website.

"The club has helped fast-track my learning of the game with detailed coaching and tuition, and I am grateful for the investment my coaches and teammates have made in me.

"My ultimate goal is to play at the highest level and I will continue to work as hard as I can to achieve that dream."

Holmes is now guaranteed a third year starting as a Saints' rookie, with the possibility for an upgrade becoming more realistic with every game he plays.

He has racked up big numbers in the ruck at VFL level, accumulating 60 hit-outs against Port Melbourne last month.

In recent weeks, he's been trialled in the forward line to add some more versatility to his game.

From Chicago, Holmes needed just two games in the VFL's development league when he first came to the Saints at the end of 2013 after he showcased his athletic prowess at an AFL combine.

He was close to a senior promotion last season, but instead finished off his year strongly for Sandringham, and is now considered the Zebras' No.1 ruckman.

Coach Alan Richardson said Holmes' progression had been remarkable given he had no knowledge of the game until very recently.

"Jason came to us with tremendous athleticism and a competitive nature but very little understanding of Australian football," Richardson said.

"To come to the other side of the world to try your hand at a game you know very little about says a bit about his character and willingness to succeed at elite sport.

"His willingness to learn and develop has been a key factor in his rise and we are excited about the potential he has shown."