Key defender Ryan Garthwaite and versatile tall Ben Miller will remain at Richmond for the 2021 season.

Garthwaite, 22, put pen to paper on a one-year deal with the Club, while Miller has been retained via a new AFL rule which allows clubs to place up to two primary listed players straight onto the rookie list without going through the NAB AFL Rookie Draft.

The 192cm Garthwaite will enter his fifth year at the Club after originally being selected with pick No. 72 overall at the 2016 NAB AFL Draft.

Garthwaite did not appear at senior level in 2020 but has played nine AFL games across his four years at Richmond. The rugged defender has stood out with his trademark desperation, leadership, and an excellent work rate at both AFL and VFL level.

“Ryan is an extremely popular and hardworking member of our group,” said Richmond General Manager- Football Talent, Blair Hartley.

“2020 was a difficult year for players outside of the team, Ryan endured through some injuries but still played an important role in driving high standards.

“We look forward to seeing him continue to improve next year.”

Miller, 21, has spent three seasons at Richmond, playing mainly as a key defender. The utility was also used in the ruck during scrimmage matches this year, where he impressed coaches.

“Ben is a young tall continuing to develop across a number of roles.” Hartley said.

“He showed some real development this year – starting down back before showing some growth in the ruck and pushing forward during the scrimmages on the Gold Coast.

“We are excited to be able to keep him at the club and look forward to seeing him continue to progress next year.”

Richmond has also informed Derek Eggmolesse-Smith that he will not be offered a contract for 2021. Eggmolesse-Smith played eight games for the Tigers after being drafted in the 2018 Rookie Draft as a Next Generation Academy selection.

Hartley thanked Eggmolesse-Smith for his hard work and dedication. “We wish Derek well in his playing career and all of his future endeavours.”

The 2020 NAB AFL National Draft will be held virtually on December 9, with the NAB AFL Rookie Draft to follow on December 10.