ALEX Witherden has continued a brilliant pre-season for the Brisbane Lions, extending his contract until 2020.

Witherden was one of the success stories of last season, playing nine games, averaging 23 disposals and impressing with his good decision-making and precise kicking from half-back. 

Following the signatures of Hugh McCluggage and No.1 draft pick Cam Rayner in the past six weeks, the Lions have tied away their primary young talent before a game has been played. 

Witherden told lions.com.au that skipper Dayne Beams played a big part in his re-signing. 

"He’s been a really big mentor for me along the way," Witherden said. 

"He leads by example and he’s hard but fair and I think that’s what you want as a leader." 

Witherden came to the Lions with the 23rd pick in the 2016 NAB AFL Draft, and took no time settling in at the top level once recovering from a broken leg.

General manager of football David Noble said it was exciting to lock Witherden away for a further two years.

"We look forward to watching him grow with us and seeing what he, along with our emerging group of re-signings, will bring in the coming years," Noble said.

"Alex is a bright young man with footy smarts well beyond his 19 years." 

In another bonus for the club, new draftee and Lions Academy graduate Jack Payne has added an extra year to his playing contract, also signing until 2020.