RISING running defender Jayden Short has signed a two-year contract to stay at Richmond.

The 22-year-old former rookie will now be in the yellow and black until the end of 2020.

He is in career-best form, playing every game this season and leading the competition for metres gained (averaging 522m a match).

Short did not play in last year's premiership after losing his spot to Bachar Houli in round 19 after the latter returned from suspension.

He played his 50th game last week against Collingwood.

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"We are really pleased to have Jayden re-commit for a further two years," Richmond general manager of football Neil Balme said.

"His development has been quite remarkable since he joined Richmond as a rookie at the end of 2014. He worked hard for his chance at senior level and has performed well this year.

"Jayden is also a lively character around the club and I know all of our players, coaches and staff will be delighted with this announcement."

Short's recommitment to the club comes on the back of co-vice captains Alex Rance and Jack Riewoldt, who have both re-signed till the end of 2021.

Premiership players Bachar Houli, Shaun Grigg, Nathan Broad and Jacob Townsend remain out of contract.