JAMES Harmes has become the latest Melbourne player to commit to the club, signing on until at least the end of 2018.

Harmes’ new contract comes on the back of Jack Viney, Jayden Hunt, Clayton Oliver and Jake Spencer putting pen to paper in the past two weeks.

General manager of football operations Josh Mahoney said Harmes had earned his latest deal.

“James has worked hard over the last few years to get into the position to sign a new two-year deal,” he told melbournefc.com.au.

“After two years on the rookie list, he was upgraded to the senior list this year and has so far played every game this season.

“James’ competitiveness, flexibility of roles and work ethic are all traits that we want to continue to build our team around.”

Originally from Devon Meadows/Dandenong Stingrays, Harmes was selected at No.2 in the 2014 NAB AFL Rookie Draft (held in November 2013).

He made his AFL debut in round 15 against Essendon at the MCG and has since played 16 matches for Melbourne.

In round seven this year, Harmes notched up a career-best 26 disposals against the Gold Coast Suns, in Melbourne’s 73-point win at Metricon Stadium, and received a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination.

A hard-at-it, courageous midfielder/forward, the 20-year-old looms as an important member of Melbourne’s future.