North Melbourne spearhead Nick Larkey has rejected free agency to sign one of the longest contracts in the AFL, committing to the Kangaroos until the end of 2029.
The 25-year-old was due to come out of contract at the end of next season but has signed a five-year extension at Arden St.
Only Sydney's Nick Blakey (2031), Melbourne midfield gun Clayton Oliver and Carlton key forward Harry McKay (both 2030) are tied to their respective clubs beyond Larkey's deal.
"It's an awesome feeling. I can't believe I'm going to be a player here for that long," Larkey said in a club statement.
"I never would have thought my career would go this way or I'd have the chance to play at North Melbourne until I’m at least 30.
"I'm really humbled, honoured and excited for the next five years."
Larkey, selected with pick 73 in the 2016 draft, has kicked 156 goals in 84 games to date and is North Melbourne's leading goal-kicker this season with 36 in 13 matches.
His contract extension comes just weeks after Kangaroos co-captain Jy Simpkin signed for the same length of time.
The key duo have committed long-term despite ongoing uncertainty around North Melbourne's coaching position, with Alastair Clarkson still on personal leave.
Larkey said recent performances under caretaker coach Brett Ratten, as well as the development of the Kangaroos' young brigade, convinced him to sign on.
"The past four weeks, even though we've lost, there's been genuine positives from those games with some of the younger guys stepping up and playing really good footy," Larkey said.
"There's a genuine belief that we're going to be alright with these players around us."
The Kangaroos (2-11) are seeking to snap an 11-match losing streak when they take on the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium on Sunday.
