Bulldogs list manager Sam Power has had his hands full over the last few weeks as he aims to lock in a number of key players.
So far, up-and-coming star ruckman Tim English and All-Australian half-back pair Bailey Dale and Caleb Daniel have all signed extensions, and according to AFL.com.au, key defender Alex Keath has joined this list, signing at the Kennel for an extra year.
The Dogs' most prolific key defender has been somewhat of a revelation since arriving at the club from Adelaide in 2019, and is understood to have reached a trigger in his contract.
In the two full years since he made the move, Keath has finished sixth on both occasions, helping the Dogs to a grand final berth in 2021.
The former domestic cricketer has not taken the usual path of an AFL footballer, deciding to pursue first-class cricket for Victoria, the Melbourne Stars and the Adelaide Strikers before shifting his attention back to football at the age of 24.
With Luke Beveridge's side currently clinging onto eighth spot, Keath will be a big part of the Dogs' quest for a third successive Finals spot.
Power's attention will now be turned to midfield duo Bailey Smith and Josh Dunkley who remain without deals for 2023.
Jason Johannisen, Rhylee West, Josh Schache, Robbie McComb, Mitch Wallis and Taylor Duryea are all also without deals at the end of the season.
On top of the re-signings of English, Dale and Daniel, the club recently confirmed new deals for Buku Khamis, Mitch Hannan and Dominic Bedendo, while star Jack Macrae signed a new deal until 2027 earlier this year.
