Nick Murray has reaffirmed his commitment to Adelaide by signing a three-year contract extension to the end of 2028.

The 23-year-old 195cm key defender has played 55 games over the past four seasons after overcoming a knee reconstruction in 2023.

Recruited as a pre-season supplemental selection straight from the farm in NSW in January, 2021, Murray made his AFL debut in Round 2 that season and has made steady progress ever since.

By 2023 he had cemented his spot in Adelaide’s backline and was enjoying a breakout season when he ruptured his ACL in Round 19 against Melbourne.

After a successful rehabilitation, he returned to the field at AFL level in Round 15 this year and played nine games to finish the season strongly.

He is now joined at West Lakes by younger brother Toby who was selected by the Crows in this year’s mid-season rookie draft.

Crows GM List Management and Strategy Justin Reid said Murray was a very popular teammate and an example of hard work and commitment paying off.

“Nick’s competitiveness stood out from day one but over the past four seasons his physical preparation, skill level and understanding of the game has gone to a new level,” Reid said.

“He showed great resilience in dealing with a serious knee injury just as his career was really taking off, and his professional approach to his rehab is why he was able to get back to playing some great footy at the back end of this season.

“At only 23 we know there is a lot more to come so we are excited to have him recommit to the Club to 2028.”

Murray said he never hesitated in signing when presented with the opportunity to extend his contract.

“I’m extremely grateful for the Club giving me a chance in 2021 and now it’s time to try to repay that show of faith in me,” he said.

“I love the group that we have, I feel a big part of it and I’m excited by the journey we are on so rapt to be sticking around for the next four years.”