Young Adelaide defender Rory Laird is the latest Crow to recommit to the club, signing a new three-year deal.

After midfielders Rory Sloane and Richard Douglas were re-contracted last week, the Crows today announced in-form small defender Laird had also been secured until the end of 2018.

Laird, 21, has played 45 games since his debut in 2013. This year he’s played every match and has been one of Adelaide’s best in an up-and-down season.

“Signing on was an easy decision because I am really excited by the journey we have embarked upon,” Laird said in a statement.

“There is no doubt we have the talent and we must now do the hard work to make sure we get where we want to go.

“We are fortunate to be at a club where we have every opportunity to get the best out of ourselves and there is a lot to like about the team-first environment.”

Adelaide senior coach Phil Walsh said Laird had taken up his “team-first” mantra.

“Rory has been one of our most consistent performers this season with his fierce attack on the footy and opposition,” Walsh said.

“He is another one of those players who epitomises the team-first attitude and I think most would agree that he has taken his game to another level.

“He will continue to play an important role in our emerging backline in the years ahead.”