THE WESTERN Bulldogs have continued a strong recent history of retaining important players with key defender Marcus Adams recommitting for a further three seasons.

The 23-year-old has become a key cog in the Bulldogs' renowned team defence with his ability to hold his own against the AFL's best key forwards.

The West Australian had battled homesickness during his first season at Whitten Oval in 2016, and he inquired about a trade back to Perth in last year's trade period.

With foot and finger injuries that limited him to just 11 games in his debut season now behind him, Adams has played all but one of the 10 opening games for the Dogs in 2017.

Adams told the club's website he couldn't be happier to remain at the Kennel.

"It's great to be able to extend my contract at the Bulldogs, and I'm looking forward to improving with every season," Adams said.

"Last year was a great experience for me to play the games I did.  It was frustrating to deal with the injuries I had, but I took a lot out of the season.

"I want to establish myself in this team, and do whatever I can to help the team achieve success."

In keeping with coach Luke Beveridge's demand for versatility, Adams has also performed well up forward this season when key forwards Travis Cloke and Jake Redpath were injured.

"We believe Marcus has a big future at the Bulldogs, and we're thrilled to see him extend his contract," Bulldogs list manager Jason McCartney said.

"We see him as a key pillar of our defensive unit, with his athleticism and intercept marking his standout traits.  He is progressing very well. 

"Through necessity he has gone forward at times this year and has been a threat, which has added another string to his bow."

Adams landed at the Dogs as a mature-aged recruit with pick No.35 in the 2015 AFL Draft, after impressing with WAFL side West Perth.

He joins forward Clay Smith, and exciting youngsters Bailey Williams and Tim English in re-signing with the premiers this season.