Jake Lever signs AFL contract extension with Adelaide Crows

Young Adelaide Crows defender Jake Lever has signed a contract extension that will see him remain at the club until at least the end of 2017.

Lever, 19, was already contracted until the end of next season, but has agreed to an additional year.

Recruited from the Calder Cannons with the Crows' first pick (number 14 overall) in last year's AFL Draft, Lever made his AFL debut against Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium in round six this year. 

The backman has played a total of nine games, impressing the club's management with his composure, aggression and leadership.

Lever said he was thrilled to extend his stay at West Lakes.

"When I first got here I had to adjust to the AFL lifestyle of training every day and backing it up each week," Lever said.

"Since I've come to the club the players and the coaches have been fantastic for my development and I look forward to continuing to improve."

Crows head of football David Noble said Lever had already shown a level of maturity beyond his years both on and off the field.

"Jake brings a calm, composed element to the defensive group with a competitive edge that we love," Noble said.

"His work ethic is outstanding, he fits well into our team-first environment and has all the hallmarks of being a long-term player for our club."

This year the Crows have already resigned Rory Sloane, Richard Douglas, Jake Kelly and Rory Laird.