Melbourne’s Blake Howes has signed a fresh deal with the club, extending his contract through to the end of 2025.

The 19-year-old, who was already locked in for 2023, put pen to paper on a further two seasons this week, as he looks to build on his first year as a Demon.

Howes tallied 10 VFL matches in 2022, including Casey’s premiership win over Southport, with only a foot injury holding him back – he was sidelined between Round 3 and 18 of the VFL season.

Melbourne List Manager Tim Lamb said the club was pleased to secure the versatile tall, whose impact is felt both in the air and at ground level.

“To have Blake remain in the red and blue for at least the next three years is exciting,” he told Melbourne Media.

“Blake is a great young talent, who has applied himself since day one at the club. The drive and resilience he showed throughout his rehab is a true reflection of his ambitious character.

“We look forward to watching Blake grow over the coming seasons and seeing what he can achieve when an opportunity presents itself at AFL level.”

Standing at 190cm, Howes averaged 12 disposals for Casey this season, with his biggest outing coming on return from injury in Round 18 – he registered 19 disposals and six marks.

Howes was Melbourne’s second selection in the 2021 National Draft, taken at pick No.39.