A revered veteran, an emerging utility player and two developing youngsters are the latest West Coast Eagles players to extend their contracts until at least the end of the 2022 season.
All Australian defender Brad Sheppard, who earlier this season joined the Eagles’ exclusive 200-game club, heads the list.
The versatile backman has been one of the club’s most consistent players for more than a decade and was a key to Sunday’s victory against Fremantle when the club extended its winning run in the RAC Derby to 11.
In the absence of vice-captain Jeremy McGovern, former captain Shannon Hurn and another of the club’s prolific intercept markers, Tom Barrass, the adaptable Sheppard, 29, was comfortably the elder statesman within the defensive group.
Nelson, another member of the defensive unit on the weekend, has also been deployed in a run-with role through the midfield this season.
The 25-year-old, close mates with Liam Duggan and Tom Cole, has been a regular for more than a season after taking a little time to establish himself in the team.
Tall, lean youngster Callum Jamieson and rookie midfielder Zane Trew complete the list to have signed and both are making strong progress.
Jamieson, 20, a 200cm ruckman-forward from North Beach was selection 49 in the 2019 draft and has spent the last 18 months readying his body for the rigors of AFL football and is impacting with the WAFL Eagles.
Trew, a strong-bodied 19-year-old midfielder from Swan Districts, was secured by the club as its last selection in the 2020 ballot, snared with its only pick in the rookie draft at #12.
He has already impressed with the WAFL Eagles and played a NAB Challenge game against Fremantle in the pre-season at Joondalup Arena.
"The players who have re-signed cover the full spectrum, not just in terms of experience but also in the positions they play," said Rohan O’Brien, the club’s list and recruiting manager.
"Brad has been an outstanding player for our club for a long time and it is great to have his contract in place.
"He is also an important part of our group and has great respect across the club.
"Jacko has added another string to his skillset this year, being able to play through the midfield as well as half-back and provides the match committee with flexibility. He has played every game this season and is growing in confidence and stature.
"We see Callum and Zane as exciting young prospects for our club and they have already shown encouraging growth playing with the WAFL Eagles."