PROMISING second-year defender Ed Vickers-Willis has signed a new two-year deal with North Melbourne.

Vickers-Willis has yet to make his AFL debut after undergoing a left shoulder reconstruction midway through last season and a right shoulder reconstruction in December.

But the former Sandringham Dragon has made an impressive return in the VFL this year, earning himself a contract extension that ties him to Arden Street until the end of 2018.

Vickers-Willis' form has seen him named as an emergency several times in recent rounds, and he came close to making his debut against Collingwood in round 18 when Daniel Wells had to pass a last-minute fitness test to take his place in the side.

The 20-year-old told NMFC.com.au he hadn't given up hope of debuting before the end of the season.

"It's great to know that they want me here as a player and know that I can contribute to the football club in the future, so I'm really excited to sign on for another two years with North Melbourne," Vickers-Willis said.

"It's just been great to play footy this year. It's been a tough first two years at the club. Starting to learn that continuity is key when you are trying to improve and develop as a player and push for senior selection. 

"I've been really enjoying playing at Werribee, but in the last few weeks I've been looking to push through to the seniors and contribute in the finals."

Vickers-Willis has played 11 games for Werribee this season and been named in the Tigers' best players three times. 

The 190cm defender reads the play well, is composed under pressure and shapes as a logical successor for Michael Firrito when the veteran retires.