THE BRISBANE Lions have started the new year in style, extending the contract of No.1 draft pick Cameron Rayner by a further two years.

Rayner will now be at the club until at least the end of 2021. 

Taken with the coveted first pick in November's NAB AFL Draft, Rayner has fitted in seamlessly to his new home since moving north from Melbourne. 

"I’ll be up in Brisbane for four years now which is very exciting," Rayner told lions.com.au.

"The team’s looking like it’s going in the right direction and I want to be a part of that. 

"There is just so much young talent here." 

The 18-year-old, who is living with Lions CEO Greg Swann, said "it’s just somewhere I want to be". 

"It’s pretty nice in Brisbane. You can walk around in a t-shirt and shorts all day," Rayner said.

After winning four of their final 11 matches in Chris Fagan's first season in charge, the Lions have continued to grow from strength to strength. 

The acquisition of Hawthorn champion Luke Hodge and Adelaide speedster Charlie Cameron during the NAB AFL Trade Period was followed by the contract extension of 2016 No.3 draft pick Hugh McCluggage for a further three years. 

Fagan said he could not be more impressed with Rayner's first two months at the Lions. 

"Cam’s highly competitive nature, his team-first approach and willingness to work hard have been highlights over his first couple of months," Fagan said.

"His skills and ability to read the game combined with his power and speed are valuable attributes for our team. 

"Above and beyond everything else he is a terrific person who is hell-bent on earning the respect of his teammates for the way he goes about his life and his football."