Adelaide ruckman Reilly O’Brien will remain at West Lakes until at least the end of 2021 after signing a two-year contract extension. 

The 23-year-old has made the No.1 ruck spot his own this season, playing every AFL game after replacing an injured Sam Jacobs in Round Three.

Across 14 games in 2019, O’Brien has averaged 14.9 disposals, four clearances and 34.7 hitouts per game with standout performances against Greater Western Sydney in Round 12 and Richmond in Round 13 in which he topped the weekly coaches’ votes.

“The Crows have shown enormous faith in me, so it's fantastic to be able to sign a new deal and commit to the Club,” O’Brien said.

“It’s been awesome to get the opportunity to play more senior footy this year and being able to contribute to the team.

“I’m really enjoying the challenge of getting the best out of myself each week and the help from ‘Doc’ Clarke and Sauce to improve my ruck craft has been great.”

Crows General Manager List Management and Strategy Justin Reid said O’Brien was a valued member of the playing group.

“Reilly had to wait patiently for his opportunity, but he’s really seized it this year on the back of a really solid pre-season,” Reid said.

“After seeing Reilly develop over a few years, we knew what he was capable of and he’s really growing as an AFL ruckman every single week.

“We always wanted to keep him at the footy club, so we’re delighted he’s signed for two more years.”

O’Brien was selected with pick No.9 in the 2015 Rookie Draft and made his AFL debut in Round 20, 2016 against the Brisbane Lions.