Fremantle defender Brennan Cox has signed a two-year contract extension which will see him remain a Docker until at least the end of 2022.

The 22-year-old enjoyed a breakout season in 2020, emerging as a key cog in Fremantle’s injury-hit backline.

Cox and Luke Ryan held the young team’s defence together in the absence of reliable trio Griffin Logue, Alex Pearce and Joel Hamling.

Cox says he’s eager to continue evolving as a defender after initially starting his career in Fremantle’s forward line.

“The position change has been good. I think with the support of teammates and everyone around me, it’s really helped me,” Cox said.

“I haven’t played too many games down back but picking the brains of Alex Pearce, Joel Hamling, Griffin Logue and Luke Ryan, it’s really helped me and held me in good stead.

“I think playing down back is probably my more natural position.”

Cox, taken with pick 41 in the 2016 draft, credited Justin Longmuir’s defensive experience as a key factor in his development this year.

“With Justin coming from Collingwood and being the backline coach there, he’s got his mind wrapped around the defensive part of the game. He’s been brilliant for me,” Cox said.

“I’m really keen to be a part of this club, I think we’re building something very special and I can’t wait to just keep improving with all of the young fellas alongside our more experienced players.

“I’ve built a lot of connections here and I’m keen to keep growing.

“Over these next couple of years, I think we can really improve and hopefully push for finals.”

Cox has featured in 47 games in his four years at the Dockers, including 13 senior appearances this year.

The re-signing is welcome news for the club after delisting Brandon Matera and rookie-listed trio Hugh Dixon, Tom North and Jarvis Pina last week.

The departures took the total number of players cut to eight after Cam McCarthy, Jason Carter, Dillon O’Reilly and Isiah Butters were released during the season.