TY VICKERY was very much a work in progress during his first two seasons.

Drafted by Richmond with selection eight in the 2008 national draft, the 200cm key-position prospect initially struggled to cope with the physicality of AFL football.

Although he had played 23 games by the end of last season, he'd booted only eight goals.

This year, however, Vickery has emerged as a key pillar in the Tigers' developing forward line.

The 21-year-old has played in all of Richmond's 19 matches and has proven to be a more than capable sidekick for star sharp-shooter Jack Riewoldt.

Vickery currently has 31 goals to his name, which puts him second at Tigerland behind Riewoldt, who has kicked 56.

"I'm really enjoying playing alongside Brad Miller and Jack and the whole forward line really, trying to get a cohesive unit down there," Vickery said.

"To put together more consistent performances is what I wanted to do and I've been able to achieve that."

While kicking more goals is important, Vickery's marking, especially in contests, has been the standout feature of his play.

In 2010, he took only 25 marks at an average of 1.8 per game, but this season he has hauled in 81 at an average of 4.3 per game.

He hauled in six marks during the Tigers' upset 43-point win over the Sydney Swans at the MCG last Sunday, and also finished with 15 possessions and a goal.

On top of his impressive performances in the forward line, Vickery's work around the ground has become more effective as well - not that he wants Damien Hardwick to shift him out of Richmond's attack too often.

"I do enjoy going into the ruck and spending time there as it’s a good break from having a defender sitting on you all day," he said.

"But I think I'm developing into a key forward and that's where I'd like to stay."