Hawthorn has locked away the future of rising ruckman Ned Reeves, with the talented big man putting pen to paper on a three-year contract extension.

The new deal will ensure Reeves remains in the brown and gold until at least the end of the 2026 season.

The 24-year-old played a career-best 12 games in 2022, overcoming an early-season shoulder injury, before stepping up to perform an important role within the club’s ruck division.

01:58

Averaging 26.9 hitouts per game, the 210cm giant impressed many with his developing ruck craft and aerial capacity, also demonstrating an ability to push forward and provide a target inside attacking 50.

National Recruiting and List Manager Mark McKenzie highlighted Reeves’ rapid growth as a major influence in him being rewarded with the new deal.

“We see Ned as an important piece of Hawthorn’s future and we are thrilled that he has committed to the club for another three years,” McKenzie said.

“Ned’s progression as a young ruckman has been really strong, he continues to build upon his development each and every day with his strong work ethic.”

“Having only turned 24 at the end of last season, we believe Ned’s ceiling is as high as any young ruckman in the league and we look forward to seeing him take the next step in 2023."